Tourism - Blogs - CaribShout
2024-03-29T14:33:55Z
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A Guide To Anguilla, The Caribbean’s Best-Kept Secret
https://caribshout.com/blog/a-guide-to-anguilla-the-caribbean-s-best-kept-secret
2024-02-27T21:19:56.000Z
2024-02-27T21:19:56.000Z
CaribShout
https://caribshout.com/members/CaribShout
<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390180670,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390180670,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="12390180670?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p>
<p>In the heart of the Caribbean, Anguilla beckons with its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and a fascinating culture waiting to be explored. For the avid traveler looking for the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, this island paradise is a dream destination that for some reason still remains largely undiscovered, offering a sanctuary of tranquility for those in search of an authentic escape with uncrowded beaches. Here’s just a sample of some of the best things to do in Anguilla.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390180685,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390180685,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12390180685?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>The Arches are one of Anguilla's most famous landmarks.</p>
<small>SANDRA MACGREGOR</small>
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<div>There’s no better way to explore Anguilla than via a colorful Moke. Mokes are small, open-air vehicles that provide a thrilling way to navigate the scenic landscapes of Anguilla. With the freedom to explore at your own pace, you can visit popular attractions, beautiful beaches and excellent eateries. Spots to visit include any of the country’s stunning beaches, art galleries, historical landmarks, the pink house, Gerard’s Catholic Church, Ebenezer Methodist Church, Back Street Overlook, Koal Keel Plantation and the Arches.</div>
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<div class="halfway_hardwall_4"> The Anguilla National Trust plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the island’s natural heritage. Committed to environmental conservation, the trust offers engaging nature and birding tours that provide visitors with a novel way to explore Anguilla's diverse ecosystems. Led by knowledgeable guides, these family-friendly tours not only showcase the island's rich biodiversity — including its unique bird species — but also educate participants about the importance of conservation efforts. It’s a unique and interactive way for visitors to appreciate the island's natural beauty, while contributing to sustainable and responsible tourism practices. Email, phone or reach out via their Facebook page to book a hike or nature/birding tour. Try an immersive experience into Anguilla's culinary heritage with a Johnny Cake Making lesson, a traditional Anguillan treat.</div>
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<p><strong>Stay</strong></p>
<div class="image-embed__placeholder"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390180884,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12390180884?profile=RESIZE_584x" />Aurora Anguilla at sunset</div>
<small>SANDRA MACGREGOR</small>
<p><a class="color-link" title="https://www.auroraanguilla.com" href="https://www.auroraanguilla.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Aurora Anguilla</strong></a></p>
<p>Located on the beautiful shores of Anguilla’s famous Rendezvous Beach, Aurora epitomizes refined luxury and wonderful service. Featuring a selection of meticulously designed guestrooms and suites, the hotel is a lovely retreat with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Beyond the luxurious accommodations, the property has an impressive selection of activities, including golf, a spa, pickleball and tennis clinics and more. In terms of family friendly fun, the property has recently added a state-of-the-art amphitheater and entertainment park that features a zero-entry swimming pool, a lazy river and three thrilling water slides.</p>
<p>The food offerings are unparalleled. The hotel even has its own organic and hydroponic farms on property (tours are available) — so you know everything is incredibly fresh. Not to be missed is C Level, the hotel's beachside restaurant, where you can indulge in Caribbean-inspired flavors, including the renowned Lobster Beach BBQ. Aurora Anguilla is a serene sanctuary, seamlessly blending refined luxury, breathtaking views and a long list of leisure activities.</p>
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<p class="color-body light-text">Typical balcony view at lovely Zemi Beach House - SANDRA MACGREGOR</p>
<p><a class="color-link" title="https://www.zemibeach.com/" href="https://www.zemibeach.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Zemi Beach House</strong></a></p>
<p>Set on the tranquil shores of Shoal Bay East, Zemi Beach House is a blend of luxury and relaxed elegance. This 5-star resort captures the essence of Anguilla's natural beauty, offering a haven of serenity that feels like a well-guarded secret. Boasting contemporary architecture harmoniously blended with local elements, Zemi Beach House is an opulent retreat that, through its stunning decor choices and friendly atmosphere, flawlessly captures the unique essence of Anguilla. (Additionally, while I did not experience it myself, the Zemi Thai House Spa is said to be the best wellness retreat on the island.)</p>
<p>The cuisine is also outstanding. 20 Knots features local and organic fare that celebrates the island — be sure to try the Caribbean curry and seafood dishes. Rhum connoisseurs are well advised to do a tasting at Zemi's acclaimed Rhum Room. There you will be led on a rhum tasting like no other, savoring some of the world’s most coveted and rarest rhums. Or try a handcrafted cocktail like the Caribbean Milk, featuring Pyrat XO, pineapple, sorrel tea, mauby syrup, clarified milk and allspice. It truly is an incredibly memorable experience. With its world-class amenities, impeccable service, and a backdrop of turquoise waters and powdery white sands, Zemi Beach House is an ideal island getaway.</p>
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<p class="color-body light-text"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390181455,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390181455,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12390181455?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>At Sunshine Shack go for the delectable chicken and ribs combo or grilled lobster</p>
<small>SANDRA MACGREGOR</small>
<p><strong>Eat</strong></p>
<p><a class="color-link" title="https://www.facebook.com/GorgeousScillyCay" href="https://www.facebook.com/GorgeousScillyCay" target="_blank"><strong>Scilly Cay</strong></a></p>
<p>Scilly Cay, located off the coast of Island Harbor, is a renowned beachfront restaurant offering a quintessential Caribbean dining experience. Accessible by boat, this charming cay has white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Here, visitors can indulge in delicious, freshly prepared seafood, grilled right on the beach and wash it all down with the restaurant’s famous rum punch. Afterwards, a leisurely swim is just steps away.</p>
<p><a class="color-link" title="https://www.facebook.com/p/Sharkys-Restaurant-Anguilla-100054496117818/?locale=es_LA" href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Sharkys-Restaurant-Anguilla-100054496117818/?locale=es_LA" target="_blank"><strong>Sharky’s</strong></a></p>
<p>A reservation is advised if you want to secure a spot at what is possibly Anguilla’s most beloved (and locally owned and operated) restaurant. You can’t go wrong no matter what you order, but especially delectable dishes include the cinnamon spice pumpkin soup, the lobster cakes and the impossibly creamy jalapeño shrimp and lobster risotto. You’re sure to have a fun and flavorful evening (especially if you throw in a delicious cocktail) at this welcoming and lively hot spot.</p>
<p><a class="color-link" title="https://www.facebook.com/DolceVitaAnguilla/" href="https://www.facebook.com/DolceVitaAnguilla/" target="_blank"><strong>Dolce Vita Restaurant</strong></a></p>
<p>Head to Dolce Vita for an authentic Italian menu with an Anguillan twist, using fresh, local ingredients. Incredibly inviting and with a warm, friendly vibe, you’ll feel instantly at home. Specialties include polpette all parmigiana, gnocchi alla gorgonzola and lobster pasta. Don’t be surprised if the owner or fellow diners break into song at some point during the evening!</p>
<p><a class="color-link" title="https://www.facebook.com/TropicalSunsetAnguilla/" href="https://www.facebook.com/TropicalSunsetAnguilla/" target="_blank"><strong>Tropical Sunset</strong></a></p>
<p>Set on Shoal Bay, this open-air eatery is an ideal retreat for those seeking a tranquil meal by the beach. The menu features a variety of seafood options, including fresh grilled snapper, conch ceviche and coconut shrimp. With reasonable prices, friendly service and a front-row view of Shoal Bay's mesmerizing beauty, Tropical Sunset is a top choice for a lazy and tasty afternoon (after eating, diners are welcome to use the restaurant’s beach-side loungers for the rest of the day).</p>
<p class="color-body light-text"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390181100,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390181100,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12390181100?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>Succulent barbecued lobster is a staple on the island of Anguilla</p>
<small>SANDRA MACGREGOR</small>
<p><a class="color-link" title="https://sunshineshack.net/" href="https://sunshineshack.net/" target="_blank"><strong>Sunshine Shack</strong></a></p>
<p>This sandy, laid-back spot is well-known for its refreshing drinks and world-class BBQ and is popular with both locals and visitors. Go for the delectable chicken and ribs combo or grilled lobster and be sure to sample the restaurant’s famous Banana Bailey's Colada.</p>
<p><a class="color-link" title="http://www.hiberniarestaurant.com" href="http://www.hiberniarestaurant.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Hibernia Restaurant</strong></a></p>
<p>Part restaurant, part art gallery, this enchanting eatery is a one-of-a-kind blend of upscale elegance and eclectic dining. The menu is an enticing fusion of French, Thai and Japanese fare, ensuring a memorable evening of gourmet cuisine. Favorites include the soupe de poisson antillaise, the sashimi and the coconut-milk Thai casserole.</p>
<p><a class="color-link" title="https://www.madeariman.restaurant/menu" href="https://www.madeariman.restaurant/menu" target="_blank"><strong>Madeariman</strong></a></p>
<p>If you’re looking for a friendly and filling meal, Madeariman is the right choice. The menu has refreshing frozen cocktails, tasty appetizers like fried calamari and cod fish fritters, and delectable pizzas and pasta options like lobster tagliatelle and shrimp pasta.</p>
<p><a class="color-link" title="https://www.facebook.com/p/Round-De-Corner-Bar-Restaurant-100054213621684/" href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Round-De-Corner-Bar-Restaurant-100054213621684/" target="_blank"><strong>Round de Corner</strong></a></p>
<p>There’s no better place to experience a traditional (and very filling) Anguillan breakfast on the island than at this charming eatery. Enjoy your choice of seafood that comes complete with potatoes, fried plantain, a boiled egg and salad with a baked or fried Johnny cake. It’s the perfect way to start the day.</p>
<p><strong><em><a href="https://sandra-macgregor.com/" target="_blank">Contributed by: Sandra</a></em></strong><em><a href="https://sandra-macgregor.com/" target="_blank"> McGregor</a></em></p>
<p>I’m a Canadian writer and editor who specializes in travel, food and wine. My father was in the Canadian Air Force so my family was constantly moving from base to base, which is why I developed an unquenchable thirst to discover what lies beyond the next horizon. My work has appeared in a variety of publications like the New York Times, the UK Telegraph, the Washington Post, the Boston Globe and the Toronto Star. As a wayfaring writer I spend most of time exploring new destinations and I’ve also been fortunate enough to live for a year or two in captivating cities across the globe like Paris, France, Seoul, South Korea and, most recently, Cape Town, South Africa. When travelling I especially love experiencing the food and wine scene, and I have my WSET Level 1 Award in Wines. Follow me on Twitter at @MacgregorWrites and Instagram at <a href="" target="_blank">@sandragetssidetracked</a></p></div>
Naming airport after Ian Fleming a ‘huge pull factor’ for Jamaica
https://caribshout.com/blog/naming-airport-after-ian-fleming-a-huge-pull-factor-for-jamaica
2024-01-11T19:40:56.000Z
2024-01-11T19:40:56.000Z
CaribShout
https://caribshout.com/members/CaribShout
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<p>inister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett says the Ian Fleming International Airport at Boscobel in St Mary has all the right tools to be a powerful marketing magnate for Jamaica.</p>
<p>Bartlett, who was speaking to reporters at a recent function at Moon Palace Hotel in Ocho Rios, St Ann, said even though the airport is named after a non-Jamaican (late British author Ian Fleming), the massive international name recognition and appeal, especially “when we factor in” the worldwide success of the James Bond movie franchise, justifies the move in going in that direction.</p>
<p>“The renaming and upgrading of what was once the Boscobel Aerodrome to the Ian Fleming International Airport, named after the iconic writer and creator of the successful James Bond movies, can be a huge pull factor for Jamaica,” Bartlett said.</p>
<p>“Mr Fleming, who wrote the James Bond novels from his villa in nearby Oracabessa and lived in Jamaica for a significant portion of his life, has strong ties to the area, making the change from Boscobel to Ian Fleming a fitting tribute,” he added.</p>
<p><img class="hover-shadow cursor" title="An aerial view of the Ian Fleming International Airport in Boscobel, St Mary. (Photo: JIS)" src="https://loopnewslive.blob.core.windows.net/liveimage/sites/default/files/ian_fleming_international_airport_2_jis_5918449e42b3bf9b4af1c8b0f83f71ce.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<div class="img-quote">An aerial view of the Ian Fleming International Airport in Boscobel, St Mary. (Photo: JIS)</div>
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<div>Bartlett said that the association with Ian Fleming and the James Bond series brings with it myriad advantages for the tourism sector, arguing that the international recognition and global popularity of the James Bond franchise can serve as a powerful marketing tool for Jamaica, enticing fans of the iconic 007 (moniker for James Bond) spy movies to visit the island and explore the locations that played a part in the creation and filming of the series.</div>
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<p>“Also, by association, Jamaica, as the place where the creativity emerged that enabled Mr Fleming to write 13 James Bond novels, provides a very strong appeal. Importantly also, the market segment to which Jamaica is appealing is one to which the name Ian Fleming would have significant resonance,” he said.</p>
<p><img class="hover-shadow cursor" title="The Quality Corporate Aircraft Services Aero receives the traditional water cannon salute on arrival at the Ian Fleming International Airport on June 22, 2022. The aeroplane brought 10 passengers from Fort Lauderdale in the United States on its inaugural flight into the St Mary airport. (Photo: JIS)" src="https://loopnewslive.blob.core.windows.net/liveimage/sites/default/files/inaugural_flight_ian_fleming_international_airport_jis_4400612a1d5bb94f908ad866bb201b90.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<div class="img-quote">The Quality Corporate Aircraft Services Aero receives the traditional water cannon salute on arrival at the Ian Fleming International Airport on June 22, 2022. The aeroplane brought 10 passengers from Fort Lauderdale in the United States on its inaugural flight into the St Mary airport. (Photo: JIS)</div>
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<p>Bartlett further pointed out that the strategic targeting of the higher end of the leisure market is a critical element of the development and expansion of the tourist industry going forward.</p>
<p>“Our achievement in the mass end of the market has formed the backbone of the tourist industry for many years. However, we recognise that there are other elements of the market that can add significant value, if Jamaica is able to attract them to our country,” he said.</p>
<p>Fleming fell in love with Jamaica on his first visit in 1943. The Jamaica of the British author’s time was the playground for the rich and famous. Katherine Hepburn, Noel Coward, Errol Flynn and others were regular visitors to the island.</p>
<p>Coward (Fleming’s neighbour) was best man at his marriage to Anne Fleming at the town hall in Port Maria, St Mary.</p>
<p>Fleming loved Jamaica, and for nearly 20 years, retreated to the island where he wrote the 12 novels and short stories that feature James Bond. He died in England on August 12, 1964 and was buried in Kent.</p></div>
Zoetry Montego Bay: An international brand focused on Caribbean culture - Jamaica
https://caribshout.com/blog/zoetry-montego-bay-an-international-brand-focused-on-caribbean-cu
2023-12-18T18:22:39.000Z
2023-12-18T18:22:39.000Z
CaribShout
https://caribshout.com/members/CaribShout
<div><div class="image-caption" style="text-align:center;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12328472055,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12328472055,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="12328472055?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a>Executive staff members of Zoetry Montego Bay (from left) Kaylia Harrison, director of sales; Tencia Dunstan-Lebert, financial controller; Nadia Brown, general manager; Janique Mckoy, human resources manager.</em></div>
<p class="article__body"><strong id="strong-4be8474bb652eb99bfc8147f06f0df9b">Zoetry Montego Bay (Zoetry), a luxury boutique resort and part of the Hyatt Inclusive Collection of Hotels, opened seven years ago at Rose Hall in St James. And despite being an international brand, Zoetry has built itself around promoting the unique Jamaican cultural identity.</strong></p>
<p class="article__body">"The biggest thing out of this entire experience that we can give every single guest are the words 'genuine Jamaican warmth and hospitality'," affirmed Nadia Brown, Zoetry's general manager. "Because we want to show that love and care that we as Jamaicans have instinctively for hospitality."</p>
<p class="article__body">This local objective is in line with the broader concept of the brand that extends beyond Jamaica to Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe where each hotel offers a boutique-level experience emphasising personalised service and an authentic connection with guests.</p>
<p class="article__body">It is for the wellness traveller," Brown emphasised. "It's also for those people who are looking for a different experience in an all-inclusive, on a higher level, a boutique level. "I'm not saying that larger hotels can't do it because I've been in larger hotels before, working in management, and we always try to do that with all the guests, but in a boutique hotel, it's even more important to have that connection."</p>
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<div class="image-caption">Nadia Brown, general manager of Zoetry Montego Bay.</div>
<p class="article__body">For the 49-suite Zoetry hotel this includes a meticulously crafted welcome experience where guests are greeted with the words "Welcome home" and treated to various creature comforts on arrival; efficient and flexible check-in service that accommodates guests as soon as their rooms are ready; and the assignment of personal butlers to each suite in the hotel ensuring a high level of individualised attention and service throughout the guests' stay.</p>
<p class="article__body">But all of this is just the foundation on which the guests' Jamaican experience is built.</p>
<p class="article__body">"We bring everything together that we expose the guests to for the entire week," the general manager explained. "We have interactive programmes with the vendors, the craft vendors and the guests. So, for example, we have the wood carvers, they come and do wood-carving classes. They display their wares, they sell their goods to the guests. We also have basket weavers, jewellery makers, people who sell all kinds of crafts, beautiful Jamaican dresses, everything locally made, bags, leather that's made here in Jamaica, leather craft whether it be bags, shoes, slippers, you name it, and the list goes on."</p>
<p class="article__body">Zoetry also spotlights Jamaican culture through events like Cultural Day and Night, featuring traditional Jamaican food, entertainment and décor. The highlight is the Jamaican Extravaganza on Saturdays, showcasing the richness of the Jamaican experience. Local entertainers, including reggae bands and steel bands, contribute to the authentic ambiance for guests.</p>
<div class="image-caption"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12328473468,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12328473468,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12328473468?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>The main pool area at Zoetry Montego Bay.</div>
<p class="article__body">The resort boasts a unique culinary experience, as well, at an authentic Jamaican jerk centre named Jerky Joe's. This natural, open-air facility is situated on the beach.</p>
<p class="article__body">"It is very important for us as a Jamaican product because I'm thinking of us as ambassadors of Brand Jamaica," Brown said. "And let me tell you something, it's important for us to ensure that the guests connect with our culture when they come here. Because remember, now we have all these hotels all over Latin America, the Caribbean and the world. When they go there, they have beautiful hotels and structures just like we do. So what is going to differentiate us and put a lasting memory in the guest's mind is the experience that they have with our people."</p>
<p class="article__body">This emphasis on Jamaica extends behind the scenes where, according to Brown, the complement of over 100 employees is "a full Jamaican team. Yes, including myself as a general manager. I'm the first Jamaican general manager to be here at this hotel and I have been here for the last three years.</p>
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<div class="trc_user_exclude_btn" title="Remove this item"> She also highlighted the employee-to-guest ratio of over two to one as further evidence of the personalised service received by the guests.</div>
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<p class="article__body">The hotel not only facilitates internal promotions for staff but also offers opportunities for employees to transition to other brands within the company with Brown noting that Zoetry Montego Bay has become an attractive destination for individuals seeking personal and professional growth.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12328474294,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12328474294,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12328474294?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a></p>
<p class="article__body">"We have promoted people who actually [went on to leave]," she said. "There are a couple of people who went to school, so they have gone to school overseas. We have done development programmemes and training. We have been involved with TPDCO (Tourism Product Development Company) quite a bit with their training programs for customer service and we put the staff through that, all of them, to get that development. And then also we will transfer and promote people to other brands in our company. [And for people who] want to further their growth in Jamaica, we do give guidance to them based on the growth that they are seeking."</p>
<p class="article__body">And then there is the outreach into the surrounding Jamaican communities. Zoetry collaborates with other hotel properties for sustainability initiatives participating in beach clean-ups and contributing to the beautification of Dump-Up Beach in Montego Bay. Additionally, the team is involved in mangrove cleaning efforts to preserve the local environment.</p>
<p class="article__body">Community involvement in local schools includes various projects to enhance educational facilities such as painting, installation of bathrooms and toilets, paving work, and providing essential school supplies.</p>
<p class="article__body"><strong>Zoetry is promoted as "adult-oriented", focusing on providing a tranquil and sophisticated experience for its guests, but it does not exclude children.</strong></p>
<p class="article__body">"There are some parents that want to come to a boutique hotel but they don't want to leave their child with a nanny," Brown explained. "So, no, there are no slides that they can jump up and swing through, and all that. But we have a beautiful natural beach. We have a lot of excursions in Jamaica that are beautiful for children. So we will accept the children and babies right up."</p>
<p class="article__body">Looking forward to the future of the hotel, the general manager envisions it having a pioneering role in Jamaica's future, particularly in nurturing local talent.</p>
<p class="article__body">"My thought of the future for this particular property is that it can continue to develop Jamaican leaders and also the line-level staff who can be promoted to supervisory [positions] once they get an opportunity," she said. "And then we can develop more and more people and leadership. I'm looking specifically to develop even Jamaican general managers."</p>
<p class="article__body">The hospitality professional also expressed that the resort will continue to highlight the unique Jamaican experience.</p>
<p class="article__body">"We want to ensure that we continue to showcase the Jamaican culture to the guests so that they will come back to Zoetry Montego Bay and Brand Jamaica," Brown underscored.</p>
<p class="article__body"><a href="/https://www.hyattinclusivecollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/zoetry/jamaica/montego-bay-jamaica/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA-P-rBhBEEiwAQEXhH-AJMc69snVZaCqHi9jh-22UgoReeelU3ySJuMj3kXHIngXbe5ZmURoCfuAQAvD_BwE" target="_blank">https://www.hyattinclusivecollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/zoetry/jamaica/montego-bay-jamaica/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA-P-rBhBEEiwAQEXhH-AJMc69snVZaCqHi9jh-22UgoReeelU3ySJuMj3kXHIngXbe5ZmURoCfuAQAvD_BwE</a></p>
<p class="article__body"><a href="https://www.hyattinclusivecollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/zoetry/st-lucia/marigot-bay-st-lucia/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=soci" target="_blank">https://www.hyattinclusivecollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/zoetry/st-lucia/marigot-bay-st-lucia/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=soci</a></p></div>
20 Best Things to Do on St. John — From an Underwater Trail to a Floating Taco Bar
https://caribshout.com/blog/20-best-things-to-do-on-st-john-from-an-underwater-trail-to-a-flo
2023-11-30T14:29:59.000Z
2023-11-30T14:29:59.000Z
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<div><p style="text-align:center;"> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305718485,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305718485,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="12305718485?profile=RESIZE_710x" />PHOTO: </a>CDWHEATLEY/GETTY IMAGES</p>
<p>The U.S. Virgin Islands are home to three main islands, each with a surprisingly distinct feel: St. Thomas is thoroughly cosmopolitan, and St. Croix boasts incredible food and laid-back beaches, but what of tiny St. John? Accessible only by boat — or even better, private yacht — the tiny island of St. John is sometimes known as the "Beverly Hills of the Caribbean."</p>
<p>Tongue-in-cheek moniker aside, St. John's true richness lies in both its human-made luxuries and its natural ones. Most of the island is protected as part of the Virgin Islands National Park, hiding white-sand beaches, underwater snorkeling trails, and even age-old petroglyphs among miles of hiking trails and unforgettable scenery. With destinations like St. John, it's no wonder that the U.S. Virgin Islands made T+L's list of the 50 best places to travel in 2023.</p>
<p>We spoke with local experts from the United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, Onefinestay, and the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) about St. John, and they all said the same thing: This small yet spectacular island boasts an incredible array of things to do. Here are their recommendations for the best things to do on St. John.</p>
<p>Related: <a target="_blank">T+L's Guide to St. John</a><br />01 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305719876,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305719876,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305719876?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a><br /> Explore Virgin Islands National Park.<br /> Landscape of USVI National Park<br /> LAUREN BREEDLOVE/TRAVEL + LEISURE</p>
<p>Virgin Islands National Park is the jewel of St. John and the highlight of any visit to the island. 30 different hiking trails zigzag through the park and cut through its numerous ecosystems, while its white-sand beaches, like the world-famous Trunk Bay, are some of the most popular destinations on the island. Whether you're interested in visiting historic sites, snorkeling at colorful reefs, or enjoying a relaxing beach day in paradise, you could easily spend your entire trip to St. John exploring just within the bounds of the park.</p>
<p>Related: <a target="_blank">T+L's Guide to Visiting Virgin Islands National Park</a></p>
<p>02 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305725463,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305725463,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305725463?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a><br /> Celebrate St. John Carnival.<br /> People on stilts at Carnival<br /> VIST USVI<br /> The beloved St. John Carnival simultaneously celebrates the founding of the United States on July 4, 1776 and the abolition of slavery on July 3, 1848, bringing music, dance, food, and plenty of fanfare across the island. While the celebrations tend to be smaller than those on neighboring St. Croix and St. Thomas, they're enough to keep even the most active visitor busy and worth a summertime trip to the island. It's one of the best ways to experience "the island's rich cultural tapestry," says Joseph Boschulte, commissioner of tourism for the U.S. Virgin Islands.</p>
<p><em>03 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305725891,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305725891,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305725891?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a></em><br /><em> Spot Taino petroglyphs.</em><br /><em> Sign for Reef Bay Trail</em><br /><em> VIST USVI</em></p>
<p>There's no need to visit a museum in St. John. Etched in a rock face at the base of a plunging waterfall, age-old petroglyphs carved by the Taino Indigenous peoples native to the island offer a little-seen window into St. John's rich past. The Reef Bay Trail that takes visitors to the site cuts past four former sugar plantations, making it a historical walking tour among some of the island's most impressive landscapes.</p>
<p><em>04 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305726076,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305726076,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305726076?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a></em><br /><em> Relax at a private villa.</em><br /><em> Gorgeous villa in Peter Bay, St. John, United States Virgin Islands</em><br /><em> CDWHEATLEY/GETTY IMAGES</em></p>
<p>There are no oversized all-inclusive resorts to speak of on St. John; instead, renting a villa is the most popular accommodation choice for visitors. Onefinestay boasts over 40 private villas for rent on St. John, including everything from intimate cottages with ocean views to palatial estates with on-site spas. The concierge team at Onefinestay sets it apart and can guide guests' itineraries and arrange for local experiences to help take all the stress out of planning a trip.</p>
<p>Related: <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/hotels-resorts/all-inclusive-resorts/all-inclusive-resorts-us-virgin-islands" target="_blank">The Best All-inclusive Resorts in the U.S. Virgin Islands</a></p>
<p><em>05 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305745477,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305745477,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305745477?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a></em><br /><em> Visit a floating taco bar.</em></p>
<p>What could be better than snacking on tacos from the warm waters of the Caribbean? "Only available via boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard, Lime Out is situated in the middle of Coral Bay on a floating pontoon. This delectable option also has underwater seats to keep guests afloat while enjoying their tasty tacos and a selection of draft beer and beverages," shares Michele Bayens, director of concierge services of Onefinestay. It's just as dreamy as it sounds.</p>
<p>Related: <a href="/https://www.travelandleisure.com/food-drink/floating-taco-bar-st-john-us-virgin-islands-caribbean" target="_blank">Visit a Unique Floating Taco Bar on the Island of St. John</a></p>
<p><em>06 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305727077,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305727077,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305727077?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a></em><br /><em> Shop at Wharfside Village in Cruz Bay.</em><br /><em> Boats in Cruz Bay at St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands.</em><br /><em> P. LUBAS/GETTY IMAGES</em></p>
<p>Some of the best shopping in St. John can be found at Wharfside Village, steps away from the harbor in the island's largest town of Cruz Bay. After an afternoon of perusing the shops, stop for bites at nearby Johnny Lime, or visit High Tide Bar & Seafood Grill for the island's best conch fritters. Coral Bay and Mongoose Junction are the island's other shopping destinations.</p>
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<p><em>07 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305730877,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305730877,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305730877?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a></em><br /><em> Dive at Eagle Shoals.</em><br /><em> Typical underwater cave in a red sea reef with an underwater photographer diver </em><br /><em> STéPHANE ROCHON/GETTY IMAGES</em></p>
<p>"The protected waters in Virgin Islands National Park make St. John a paradise for divers looking for beautiful wildlife," says Kristina Leadbeater from PADI. Eagle Shoals is a memorable dive site, complete with a dramatic cave known as the Cathedral. The cave and surrounding extensions of reefs hold incredible wildlife, including tropical fish, manta rays, and even an occasional shark.</p>
<p><em>08 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305731866,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305731866,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305731866?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a></em><br /><em> Follow a snorkeling trail at Trunk Bay.</em><br /><em> Vibrant sunrise over famous Trunk Bay on the tropical Caribbean island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands</em><br /><em> BKAMPRATH/GETTY IMAGES</em></p>
<p><br /> St. John has plenty to offer beneath the waves, even for those who aren't divers. Trunk Bay's Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail is a 650-foot-long sea trail complete with underwater plaques identifying the endless corals, plants, fish, and turtles that inhabit these crystalline waters for the most informative swim of your life.</p>
<p>Snorkeling aside, stretching out on the pristine sands of Trunk Bay is a highlight of any visit to the island. "There are beautiful beaches, and then there are beaches that leave you speechless," lauds Rondel Holder for T+L of what is considered among the best beaches in the Caribbean.</p>
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<p>09 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305732286,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305732286,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305732286?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a><br /> Try local island dishes.<br /> St. Croix may earn the title of the culinary capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, but St. John has some hidden gastronomic gems that include the best of the flavors of the Caribbean. Roadside spots serve up favorites like barbeque and the national dish of fish and fungi. With a daily rotating menu of island favorites like curried goat, oxtail, or the catch of the day, <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g2053566-d2622141-Reviews-Ekaete_Pink_Corner-Coral_Bay_St_John_U_S_Virgin_Islands.html" target="_blank">Ekaete Pink</a> Corner feels and tastes as local as it gets.</p>
<p><em>10 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305735656,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305735656,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305735656?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a></em><br /><em> Camp on the beach.</em><br /> Travelers looking to get closer to nature in St. John can skip the luxe villa for an experience only steps from the waves and under the stars. Cinnamon Bay Beach & Campground is the only location within Virgin Islands National Park that permits camping, though they also offer cottages and fully equipped eco-tents, plus a restaurant and food truck, for those visitors looking for a few simple luxuries.</p>
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<p style="text-align:center;">11 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305737099,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305737099,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305737099?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a><br /> <em>Visit the historic Annaberg Sugar Plantation.</em><br /><em> Windmill at Annaberg Sugar Plantation, St. John, US Virgin Islands</em><br /><em> MEDIOIMAGES/PHOTODISC/GETTY IMAGES</em></p>
<p>The history of the U.S. Virgin Islands is marked by its reliance on the labor of enslaved peoples in its sugarcane fields. The ruins of Annaberg Sugar Plantation, first established in 1722, offer a peek at both the daily lives of the enslaved people who lived here and the vital role of sugar in the island's economy. Open daily and administered by the National Park Service, the plantation offers free entry to all.</p>
<p>12 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305737884,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305737884,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305737884?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a><br /> <em>Snorkel at a unique wreck site.</em><br /><em> Aerial view of Cinnamon Bay, St.John, US Virgin Islands</em><br /><em> CDWHEATLEY/GETTY IMAGES</em></p>
<p>Dozens of beaches dot the island of St. John, but local experts recommend Cinnamon Bay Beach for snorkelers. "I like to recommend [Cinnamon Bay Beach] due to its unique snorkeling options. A substantial table reef can be found in five to 15 feet of water if you go snorkeling off the eastern end of the beach. There's an interesting submerged aircraft wreckage here — it's little more than a small plane's motor, prop, and section of wing, but in eight feet or less of shallow water, it's an interesting sight!" says Bayens.</p>
<p>13 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305738873,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305738873,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305738873?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a><br /> <em>Explore the island on foot.</em><br /><em> mother and child hiking and walking dog on trail in tropical forest in the Virgin Islands</em><br /><em> CDWHEATLEY/GETTY IMAGES</em></p>
<p>Miles of trails crisscross St. John, making the island a paradise for avid hikers and beginners alike. Lind Point Trail offers impressive vistas on its 2.3-mile route from Cruz Bay to Salomon Beach and Honeymoon Beach. Ram Head Trail is a bit more challenging but offers even more spectacular views. Get an early start to avoid the heat, and bring a bathing suit to enjoy where the trail meets the sea.</p>
<p>14 of 20<br /> Enjoy live music at Miss Lucy's. <br /> Thursday nights are the perfect time to visit family-owned beachfront staple Miss Lucy's in Coral Bay thanks to live music that draws locals and visitors alike. Well known for favorite island dishes like conch fritters and Callaloo soup, Miss Lucy's also serves up a signature grouper Reuben sandwich worth crossing the island for.</p>
<p>15 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305743465,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305743465,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305743465?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a><br /> <em>Sip a painkiller cocktail.</em><br /><em> Glass of Painkiller </em><br /><em> ALEXPRO9500/GETTY IMAGES</em><br /> The painkiller is a staple on nearly every cocktail menu on St. John. While the original painkiller cocktail was created on the island of Jost Van Dyke in the neighboring British Virgin Islands, this must-try beverage features classic tropical flavors like coconut, orange, and pineapple. The original recipe calls for the dark, spiced Pusser's Rum, so make sure to request it with your order.</p>
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<p>16 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305744059,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305744059,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305744059?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a><br /> <em>Spot sea turtles at Maho Bay Beach.</em><br /><em> Woman Snorkeling with a Green Sea Turtle in the Beautiful Secluded Salt Pond Beach on the Tropical Caribbean Island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands</em><br /><em> BKAMPRATH/GETTY IMAGES</em></p>
<p>With so much of the shoreline of St. John protected as part of Virgin Islands National Park, the beaches on St. John are a haven for multiple species of turtles. Snorkelers and divers are often lucky enough to share a swim with a turtle or two, but for the best chance of spotting these gentle giants, head to Maho Bay Beach. Beds of seagrass make the waters of the bay particularly appealing to turtles, while stunning white sand and nearby food and drink vendors make it among the most beloved beaches on the island.</p>
<p>17 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305744271,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305744271,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305744271?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a><br /> <em>Sail around St. John — and beyond.</em><br /><em> Aerial view of a sailboat moored in St.John, USVI </em><br /><em> CDWHEATLEY/GETTY IMAGES</em></p>
<p>Sunset sails featuring tasty bites and drinks are some of the most popular experiences for travelers visiting St. John, while daytime excursions offer easy access to the island's best beaches and hard-to-reach snorkel and dive sites. Full-day sails also take passengers to neighboring islands, including St. Thomas and British Virgin Islands destinations like Jost Van Dyke.</p>
<p>18 of 20<br /> Meditate with ocean views.<br /> Stunning vistas of the Caribbean from the historic Peace Hill Windmill make for the perfect spot for a sunset meditation session, offered weekly on Sundays at 5:45 p.m. Hike or drive along North Shore Road to reach the spot or take the free shuttles from the Cruz Bay ferry dock and the Hawksnest parking lot.</p>
<p>19 of 20<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305745454,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305745454,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305745454?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a><br /> <em>Catch an exhibit at Bajo El Sol.</em><br /><em> A couple looking at art at Bajo El Sol</em><br /><em> COURTESY OF BAJO EL SOL</em></p>
<p>The eclectic Bajo El Sol in Mongoose Junction is equal parts gallery, bookstore, cafe, and event space that highlights the best of the local art scene in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Stop by to catch a new exhibit or a poetry reading, or come back for happy hour when the space converts into a rum and cocktail bar.</p>
<p>20 of 20<br /> Get a bird's-eye view on North Shore Road.<br /> Taxis in St. John can be prohibitively expensive, costing up to $30 per passenger for even a short drive, so consider renting a car if you're looking to explore the island. Take advantage of the freedom and head to North Shore Road for some of St. John's best scenic views. Vistas overlooking Trunk Bay, Maho Bay, and Caneel Bay make for an unforgettable drive.</p></div>
The 14 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in December
https://caribshout.com/blog/the-14-best-caribbean-islands-to-visit-in-december
2023-11-29T14:55:35.000Z
2023-11-29T14:55:35.000Z
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<div><p style="text-align:center;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305207300,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305207300,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="12305207300?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a>By: Gringa Journeys</p>
<p>As winter arrives in North America, holiday seekers escape to the warmth of the Caribbean islands for a December getaway. After all, a Caribbean winter escape makes for a tranquil Christmas retreat or an exhilarating way to ring in the new year!</p>
<p>This southern region beckons with its pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing vacation or an adventurous escape, these 14 beautiful destinations offer the perfect setting to make the most of this enchanting season.</p>
<p>From popular choices like The Bahamas to hidden gems like Bonaire, we’ll review the best Caribbean islands to visit in December. We’ll also cover why December is ideal for exploring these tropical paradises.</p>
<p>Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission when you purchase a product or book a stay through these links at no extra cost to you.</p>
<p>1. The Bahamas<br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305194697,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305194697,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="12305194697?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>View of Paradise Island in the Bahamas on a sunny day, showing high rise hotels The Bahamas, an archipelago of 700 islands and 2,400 cays, offers activities catering to every traveler’s desire for sun-soaked relaxation. Luckily, this destination is a quick flight from most U.S. cities, making it a convenient and sought-after getaway.</p>
<p>Notably, Grand Bahama is the best Caribbean island to visit in December, with warm temperatures and low rainfall. After all, you can expect highs of 80°F and only two inches of rain! Plus, you don’t have to worry about hurricanes on your Caribbean Christmas vacation.</p>
<p>The options in the Bahamas are boundless, from swimming with pigs at Big Major Cay to snorkeling at Thunderball Grotto and visiting pink sand beaches. Or, if your visit extends to the day after Christmas, the Junkanoo Festival in Nassau promises an immersive cultural celebration.</p>
<p>2. Grand Cayman<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305195891,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305195891,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305195891?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a><br /> View of a long stretch of Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman Grand Cayman is the largest of the Cayman Islands, spanning 22 miles by only 8 miles at its widest point. It’s best known for the famous Seven Mile Beach and its coral reefs teeming with marine life. In fact, you can find various water activities here, like snorkeling and scuba diving.</p>
<p>Popular spots include Stingray City, Coral Gardens, and the Kittiwake shipwreck. However, for a truly unique experience, don’t miss the magic of Bioluminescent Bay, where you can witness the water light up with natural phosphorescence on a kayak tour.</p>
<p>December is one of the best times of year to visit Grand Cayman for reliable weather. So, escape the colder weather and enjoy average highs of around 84°F. Additionally, rainfall won’t be an issue since this month marks the beginning of the dry season on the island.</p>
<p>3. Bonaire<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305197285,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305197285,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305197285?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a><br /> View of the colorful capital city of Kralendijk in Bonaire, showing cruise port Bonaire, located in the Dutch Caribbean near Aruba and Curaçao, is one of the hidden gems on this list. In particular, this island is renowned for its exceptional coral reefs and underwater biodiversity, making it a premier destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.</p>
<p>December marks the beginning of the dry season, ensuring clear skies and minimal rainfall while exploring Bonaire’s renowned coral reefs and underwater wonders. The average high in December is around 86°F, while the average low is 78°F.</p>
<p>The island’s commitment to conservation is evident at the Bonaire National Marine Park, making it a paradise for nature lovers. You won’t want to miss seeing Klein Bonaire, an uninhabited island that you can visit as a day trip!</p>
<p>Besides underwater activities, Bonaire is also home to one of the best windsurfing spots in the world: Lac Bay. We also suggest visiting the colorful capital city of Kralendijk, the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary, and the Bonaire Donkey Sanctuary.</p>
<p>4. Dominican Republic<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305198295,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305198295,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="12305198295?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a><br /> View of Punta Cana's famous Bavaro Beach, showing white sand and sun beds lining the beach The Dominican Republic is known for its stunning landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and towering mountain ranges. This Caribbean nation shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti and is celebrated for its vibrant culture, rich history, and warm hospitality.</p>
<p>The Dominican Republic is home to the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas, Santo Domingo. However, it’s mainly known for some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches, like Punta Cana’s Bavaro Beach and Puerto Plata’s Playa Dorada.</p>
<p>December signals the dry season’s start, inviting visitors to enjoy the island’s natural beauty amid clear skies and pleasant temperatures. With average temperatures ranging from 77°F to 82°F, the weather is ideal for all types of outdoor activities during your Caribbean winter vacation.</p>
<p>Explore Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone, hike to the stunning Damajagua Waterfalls near Puerto Plata, or enjoy water sports in Cabarete. You’ll also want to take a day trip via boat to the famous Saona Island, part of Cotubanamá National Park.</p>
<p>5. Aruba<br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305199253,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305199253,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305199253?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>Divi divi tree on the famous Eagle Beach in Aruba Aruba is one of the best Caribbean destinations in December due to its perfect blend of sunny weather, minimal rainfall, and festive atmosphere. As winter graces the Northern Hemisphere, Aruba offers a warm escape with temperatures averaging around 82°F (28°C).</p>
<p>In fact, it’s one of the warmest Caribbean islands in December on this list! This month kicks off the dry season, ensuring clear skies and calm seas for water activities like snorkeling and windsurfing.</p>
<p>The island is also known for its consistently sunny weather and pleasant trade winds. Nonetheless, its diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs, including the famous Antilla shipwreck, attract diving enthusiasts from around the world.</p>
<p>View the ancient cave paintings at Arikok National Park, lounge on the top-rated Eagle Beach, or stroll through the vibrant capital, Oranjestad. You’ll also want to visit the famous Flamingo Beach, part of the Renaissance Private Island.</p>
<p>Read More: Things to Know Before Visiting Aruba</p>
<p>6. Turks & Caicos<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305199672,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305199672,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305199672?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a><br /> Boardwalk leading up to beautiful beach in Turks and Caicos Turks & Caicos is known for its pristine beaches featuring powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters. Renowned for its exceptional coral reefs, the islands offer world-class snorkeling and diving experiences, with sites like Grace Bay Beach and the Turks and Caicos Barrier Reef.</p>
<p>The destination is celebrated for its luxury resorts, attracting those seeking a sophisticated and relaxing retreat. As you can imagine, hotel rates are at their highest during December and January. So, this island isn’t typically a budget-friendly choice.</p>
<p>December marks the start of the dry season, offering visitors a respite from the hurricane season. You can expect clear skies and warm temperatures, typically ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C).</p>
<p>7. Anguilla<br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305200654,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305200654,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305200654?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>Shoal Bay East in Anguilla, showing powdery white sand beach with palm trees Anguilla is known for its beaches, especially Shoal Bay East, which often ranks among the world’s best. Beyond the beaches, its lively coral reefs attract snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.</p>
<p>To the east of the British Virgin Islands, Anguilla is renowned for its luxury resorts and upscale accommodations. Additionally, don’t forget its world-class dining scene, featuring an array of culinary delights ranging from fresh seafood to international cuisines.</p>
<p>The weather in December is typically pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C). Plus, although Anguilla doesn’t reach dry season until February, it still receives much less rain than other Caribbean cities.</p>
<p>Top activities in Anguilla in December include snorkeling at Meads Bay, exploring The Valley, and lounging at Shoal Bay. You can also take a boat trip to Scilly Cay or charter a boat to Little Bay, which is accessible only by sea.</p>
<p>8. Barbados<br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305202458,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305202458,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305202458?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>Bottom Bay in Barbados, showing white powdery sand and tall palm trees Renowned for its stunning coastline, Barbados features pristine white-sand beaches like Crane Beach and Rockley Beach. The island’s historic capital, Bridgetown, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colonial architecture and historic landmarks like St. Ann’s Garrison.</p>
<p>Barbados is also recognized for its distinctive cuisine, influenced by a mix of African, British, and Caribbean flavors. Indulge in the vibrant atmosphere and fresh seafood at Oistins Fish Fry, a popular Friday night tradition.</p>
<p>The weather during this month is particularly inviting, with temperatures ranging from 73°F to 87°F (23°C to 31°C), providing a comfortable climate for travelers. Don’t miss the chance to snorkel at Carlisle Bay or sunbathe in the powdery pink sands of Crane Beach.</p>
<p>Other top things to do in Barbados include visiting Harrison’s Cave, touring St. Nicholas Abbey, or going on a rum tour. Moreover, if you have extra time, we suggest Andromeda Botanic Gardens, a tranquil horticultural gem.</p>
<p>9. Saint Martin<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305202864,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305202864,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305202864?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a><br /> Airplane landing at Princess Juliana International Airport, showing it passing over the shores of Maho Beach St. Martin is renowned for its dual nationality, governed by France in the north (St. Martin) and the Netherlands in the south (St. Maarten). This unique coexistence creates a harmonious blend of European and Caribbean influences, evident in the island’s cultural diversity and culinary excellence.</p>
<p>December signals the dry season’s start with pleasant temperatures (75°F to 85°F or 24°C to 29°C) and lower humidity. Enjoy the excitement of watching airplanes land at Princess Juliana International Airport while unwinding on the shores of Maho Beach.</p>
<p>Or, enjoy the pristine white sands and turquoise waters at Orient Bay. Apart from the beaches, we highly suggest dining in Grand Case, the “Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean.” Also, don’t forget Loterie Farm, an eco-friendly nature reserve with zip-lining, hiking trails, and a serene pool area.</p>
<p>10. Curaçao<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305203097,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305203097,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305203097?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a><br /> Colorful buildings lining the city of Willemstad in Curaçao Situated off the coast of Venezuela, this Dutch Caribbean gem is renowned for its vibrant capital, Willemstad. In fact, this city earned its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.</p>
<p>Curaçao boasts pristine beaches, exceptional diving spots showcasing rich marine life, and a unique blend of European and Caribbean cultures. In December, while North America embraces winter, Curaçao’s temperatures typically range from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C).</p>
<p>During your visit, relax at Grote Knip Beach, snorkel at Tugboat Beach, and take a boat trip to Klein Curaçao. Outdoor adventurers will also want to hike to the summit of Mount Christoffel, the island’s highest point, for panoramic views of Curaçao’s diverse landscapes.</p>
<p>While exploring Willemstad, we recommend sampling Curaçao’s diverse culinary scene. Try local dishes like Keshi Yena and Stoba, and enjoy refreshing drinks like Blue Curaçao liqueur.</p>
<p>Read More: Is Aruba or Curacao Better?</p>
<p>11. Jamaica<br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305203494,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305203494,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305203494?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>View of Ocho Rios in Jamacia, showing turquoise waters lining the shore with green mountains in the background Jamaica is renowned for its vibrant culture, reggae music, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination year-round, especially in December. Blessed with warm temperatures ranging from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C), the island offers an inviting escape from colder climates.</p>
<p>Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios are some of the most popular areas to stay on the island. Of course, Ocho Rios is home to the iconic Dunn’s River Falls, a natural staircase of cascading water that invites adventurous travelers to climb its terraced rocks.</p>
<p>Or, for more of a beach vacation, stay near Seven Mile Beach in Negril or Doctor’s Cave Beach in Montego Bay, where powdery sands meet turquoise waters. If you find yourself near Kingston, don’t miss the Bob Marley Museum, a pilgrimage for reggae enthusiasts.</p>
<p>Conclude your Jamaican adventure with a journey to the mystical Blue Mountains, where coffee enthusiasts can tour plantations and revel in the stunning landscapes.</p>
<p>12. Grenada<br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305203889,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305203889,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12305203889?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a>View of St. George's, the capital of Grenada, showing colorful buildings lining the coast and green mountains in the distance Grenada, known as the “Spice Isle,” is celebrated for its lush landscapes, aromatic nutmeg plantations, and beautiful beaches. It sits just north of South America, in the West Indies in the Caribbean Sea.</p>
<p>It’s one of the best Caribbean islands in December thanks to delightful temperatures ranging from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C), making it perfect for outdoor adventures. Of course, Grand Anse Beach is the most famous attraction here, a postcard-perfect stretch of white sand.</p>
<p>Nonetheless, other popular activities include the stunning Underwater Sculpture Park, Annandale Falls, and Concord Falls. Rum lovers will want to tour River Antoine Rum Distillery, the oldest functioning water-powered distillery in the Caribbean.</p>
<p>Spice enthusiasts can explore the fragrant spice estates, while history buffs can visit Fort George for panoramic views of the capital, St. George’s. December also brings the festive spirit alive, with the Carriacou Parang Festival showcasing local music and culture.</p>
<p>13. Puerto Rico <br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305204283,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305204283,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305204283?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>View of the old town in San Juan, Puerto Rico, as seen from the harbor Puerto Rico is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and historic landmarks. Located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States. With this in mind, Americans don’t need a passport to visit!</p>
<p>Its prime location ensures a pleasant tropical climate throughout the year, making it a popular destination to escape the winter cold, particularly in December. With temperatures ranging from 73°F to 85°F (23°C to 29°C), visitors can enjoy the island’s warmth and festive atmosphere.</p>
<p>Top attractions include the historic Old San Juan with its colorful Spanish colonial architecture, the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay in Vieques, and the lush El Yunque National Forest. Puerto Rico is also renowned for its beautiful beaches, such as Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island.</p>
<p>14. Saint Lucia<br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12305204898,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12305204898,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12305204898?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>Boats on shore at Soufriere Bay in St. Lucia, with a view of the Pitons Saint Lucia, a picturesque gem in the eastern Caribbean, is renowned for its lush landscapes, volcanic peaks, and immaculate beaches. Nestled between Martinique and Saint Vincent, this tropical paradise is a sovereign island nation within the Lesser Antilles.</p>
<p>In December, Saint Lucia becomes a sought-after destination due to its ideal weather, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 84°F (24°C to 29°C). This makes it an appealing escape from the colder climates.</p>
<p>Visitors can revel in the festive atmosphere and partake in various holiday events. Top attractions include the iconic Pitons, a pair of towering volcanic peaks, the Sulphur Springs in Soufrière, and the enchanting Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens.</p>
<p>The island offers various water activities, such as snorkeling in Anse Chastanet, exploring Pigeon Island National Park, and experiencing the vibrant local culture in the bustling town of Castries.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://gringajourneys.com/" target="_blank">https://gringajourneys.com/</a></p></div>
This Caribbean Island Is Home to Beautiful Coral Reefs — Here's How You Can Help Protect Them
https://caribshout.com/blog/this-caribbean-island-is-home-to-beautiful-coral-reefs-here-s-how
2023-11-16T21:26:37.000Z
2023-11-16T21:26:37.000Z
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<div><p style="text-align:center;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293292099,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293292099,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="12293292099?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><em>By Elaine Glusac Published on October 16, 2023</em><br /><em>A view of the beach on Bonaire island in the Caribbean sea</em><br /><em>Bonaire in the Caribbean sea. . PHOTO: COURTESY OF TOURISM CORPORATION BONAIRE</em></p>
<p>On the Caribbean island of Bonaire, visitors not only witness the beauty of the reefs but can also help improve their health. I was nervously sucking air from my tank, 15 feet below the surface of the Caribbean Sea. Wielding pliers and zip ties, I was trying — and trying — to fasten a branch of staghorn coral to Bonaire’s newest reef, but the gentlest of currents pushed me away. My anxious breathing had me rising and falling erratically, in danger of becoming what my instructor Rob Verschoor called “a wrecking ball” that could crash into the coral.</p>
<p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293293083,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293293083,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12293293083?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a><strong>A diver inspecting coral underwater</strong></em></span><br /><span style="font-size:8pt;"><strong><em>Coral restoration site. COURTESY OF TOURISM CORPORATION BONAIRE</em></strong></span></p>
<p>After this dive I would become a newly minted Reef Renewal scuba diver, trained to handle — as lightly as possible — fragments of coral grown in submarine nurseries and eventually planted on bamboo frames affixed to the ocean floor. On Bonaire, a Dutch Caribbean island east of Aruba, the nonprofit Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire partners with 13 dive centers to certify participants in reef restoration. The organization has planted more than 50,000 corals in 19 sites in the country since 2012 — vital work considering that, worldwide, three-quarters of reefs are threatened by forces like climate change and pollution.</p>
<p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><strong><em>A diver swimming in the sea holding red crates filled with coral; coral growing in the sea </em></strong></span><br /><span style="font-size:8pt;"><strong><em>A Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire diver carries a crate of staghorn coral; staghorn coral restoration site. COURTESY OF TOURISM CORPORATION BONAIRE (2)</em></strong></span><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293293498,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293293498,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12293293498?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a></p>
<p><br /> This Little-known Caribbean Island Has Bright Blue Waters and More Flamingos Than People<br />Though Bonaire is an ideal place to learn about reef regeneration — the island is surrounded by a marine sanctuary — it isn’t the only destination embracing the practice. Resorts including Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort (doubles from $224), on St. Lucia, and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru (doubles from $570), in the Maldives, invite guests who have acquired scuba certification to help with coral planting. Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas (doubles from $310) recently announced it would host the country’s first coral gene bank to preserve, study, and propagate species at risk of stony coral tissue loss disease.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293293692,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293293692,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12293293692?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><strong><em>Spiky coral growing underwater</em></strong></span><br /><span style="font-size:8pt;"><strong><em>Croal growing at a Reef Renewal Bonaire restoration site. DAVID FISHMAN/COURTESY OF REEF RENEWAL BONAIRE</em></strong></span><br />After spending a few days of leisurely diving on Bonaire’s reefs, which are home to eye-catching species like moray eels, I joined the two-day Reef Renewal training at the resort Buddy Dive Bonaire (doubles from $375; reef course $220). Six of us began with a shallow dive at a coral nursery offshore, equipped with wire brushes to clean algae from the underwater frames to which the coral is attached. It was surprisingly meditative, what with parrotfish and queen angelfish swimming by, and soon we were attaching staghorn and elkhorn coral to the rig. On our final dive we graduated to moving large pieces from the nursery to a bamboo structure that would form the basis of a new reef.</p>
<p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><strong>A group of scientists and divers stand on a boat and observe samples of coral</strong></em></span><br /><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><strong>Francesca Virdis, the COO of Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire, briefs volunteers. COURTESY OF REEF RENEWAL BONAIRE</strong></em></span><br />Even through my crystal-clear mask, stringing coral underwater was like threading a needle with blurry vision. One of my patient instructors, Liza Kelly, encouraged me to keep trying, and eventually, I got the hang of it and earned my certification. I returned home with indelible memories of diving — and pride in leaving the reefs slightly better than I found them.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293294672,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293294672,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="12293294672?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a></p></div>
I Ate My Way Through Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast — and Found Vibrant Jamaican Flavors and Centuries-old Traditions
https://caribshout.com/blog/i-ate-my-way-through-costa-rica-s-caribbean-coast-and-found-vibra
2023-11-16T21:05:35.000Z
2023-11-16T21:05:35.000Z
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<div><p><br /><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293265654,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293265654,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="12293265654?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><em>Pair of photos from Costa Rica, showing a plated shrimp dish, and shrimp cooking in a skillet</em><br /><em>From left: Carrot "noodles" with garlic shrimp at Salsa Brava; preparing a shrimp dish at Cahuita's Taste Caribbean Soul Food. PHOTO: OZZIE HOPPE</em></p>
<p style="text-align:left;">On Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, food traditions include a little-known history of Jamaican influence. It was nearly nightfall when I arrived at Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, the coastal town that I would call home during my first trip to Costa Rica. I checked in to my hotel, Satta Lodge, which sits in the jungle a short distance from the shoreline. What called me to this lush country was not the nearby sloth sanctuary, or the rainforests of Corcovado National Park, or even the alluring beaches. I was there to experience the nation’s Jamaican cuisine, forged by the community’s long history in Limón province, on Costa’s Rica’s eastern seaboard.</p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293266059,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293266059,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="12293266059?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><em>Pair of photos from Cahuita's taste restaurant, including a portrait of the owner and a plate of seafood on a pink table</em><br /><em>From left: Chef Doria Sequeira Selles serving up smiles at Cahuita's Taste; lobster with shrimp at Cahuita's Taste. OZZIE HOPPE</em></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><br />In the early 1800s, Caribbean fishermen began to settle along the same coast where, a century or so later, a young Marcus Garvey would begin his career as a political and racial justice activist. A massive project in the 1870s to construct a railway to transport coffee from the Costa Rican highlands to Limón attracted a large population of Jamaicans looking for employment. At the beginning of the 20th century, roughly 20,000 people migrated from Jamaica to Costa Rica to work at the notorious United Fruit Co. plantations, where, despite the repressive conditions, the newcomers were able to maintain their traditions, which influenced the region’s culture and cuisine.</p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293266087,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293266087,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="12293266087?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><em>Pair of photos from Jammin Vegan in Costa Rica, including the restaurant's patio, and the owner setting down two plates</em><br /><em>From left: Jammin Vegan, in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca; Jammin Vegan owner Brian "Temps" Templeton. OZZIE HOPPE</em></p>
<p><br />Today, many of these Jamaicans’ descendants live in other parts of Costa Rica, but their influence remains strongest in Limón, where Afro-Caribbean culture is woven into the fabric of the region. Green, black, and red, the colors of the flag Garvey created as a symbol of the Pan-Africanist movement he championed, are emblazoned across the walls of restaurants and bars, as well as on clothing and storefronts. Black women, integral to passing down culinary traditions, are the subjects of contemporary paintings and photographs. And “easygoing” is more a religious belief than a lifestyle approach.</p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293266467,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293266467,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="12293266467?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><br /><em>Pair of photos from Joe SnackPoint & Caribbean Food in Costa Rica, including colorful details and a plate of rice and beans</em><br /><em>From left: Details at Joe SnackPoint & Caribbean Food; oxtail with rice and beans at Joe. OZZIE HOPPE</em></p>
<p>A bit weary from the five-hour drive from Juan Santamaría International Airport, I walked a few blocks from the lodge in search of my first meal in the country and landed at Morian Soda Caribeña. I enjoyed a generous serving of rice and beans (known in many parts of the African diaspora as “rice and peas”), vegetables, and plantains with a “small” piece of baked snapper that nearly filled the entire container. It was a meal that nourished my soul. Over the next three days, I would explore the region by car, using Puerto Viejo de Talamanca as a base.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293268291,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293268291,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="12293268291?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a></p>
<p><em>The nighttime scene at a beachside restaurant in Costa Rica</em><br /><em>Guests dining outside Salsa Brava. OZZIE HOPPE</em></p>
<p>Day 1<br />After waking up to a soundtrack of exuberant howler monkeys, I drove 40 miles north up the coast to the town of Limón for another generous meal at Barbarita’s Caribbean Food. Owner Damaris Barrantes Mendez and his family pay homage to the region’s Jamaican influence through a daily buffet that includes the quintessential rice and beans, Caribbean chicken sautéed in a gently spiced coconut milk, and hash made with chayote, a summer squash.</p>
<p><strong><em>A plate of grilled pize, salsa, and rice and beans<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293271062,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293271062,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12293271062?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a></em></strong><br /><strong><em>Whole snapper with rice and beans, salsa, and patacones at Salsa Brava. OZZIE HOPPE</em></strong></p>
<p>My next stop was Cahuita, a vibrant village about 30 miles south of Limón, so I turned back and drove down the coast to meet chef Doria Sequeira Selles at her restaurant, Cahuita’s Taste Caribbean Soul Food. After indulging in a flight of inventive ciders including pineapple chile and Caribbean punch, I ordered a star-fruit cider with my langosta en salsa caribeña con camarones — lobster topped with plump shrimp, submerged in a bath of aromatic curry sauce. Thankfully, I had the Costa Rican staple, patacones, to soak it all up. These twice-fried slices of green plantain are one of many Caribbean and Latin American preparations of a fruit that’s integral to dishes of the African diaspora. The meal came to an end with a sweet, boozy rum cake, a local favorite that has become Selles’s calling card. Selles explained that she created the dessert to pay homage to the community central to her restaurant and identity. “We are Black people,” Selles told me. “No matter where we go in the world, we’re still Black. We are supposed to love our culture, and our traditions. We should be proud, because this is what we made.”</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293268277,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293268277,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="12293268277?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a><em>Waves crash on a beach in Costa Rica</em><br /><em>Locals enjoying Playa Negra, in Puerto Viejo. OZZIE HOPPE</em></p>
<p>Day 2<br />Back in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, I sat on a barstool and had an early lunch beachside at Tamara’s Caribbean Restaurant, where I observed Rastafarians chopping it up with friends and travelers. I savored a creamy seafood soup made with generous amounts of shrimp and mussels — an oddly soothing treat on a hot summer day. I took a few last sips of my cuba libre while listening to the waves crash at Playa Puerto Viejo. Just along the shore sits El Sendero Beach Club, a relative newcomer to the area, and Salsa Brava Restaurant & Bar, a longtime institution known for its “ground provision” dishes, like cassava fritters and fried sweet plantains — and its reggae nights.</p>
<p>Wanda Patterson, who runs Salsa Brava with her family, cited “survival” and “identity” as the reasons she and her family continue to share their family’s Jamaican recipes at the club. “Ingredients like root vegetables and coconut milk and oil are influences from our parents and great-grandparents,” she said.</p>
<p>Pair of photos from Salsa Brava restaurant in Costa Rica, including a portrait of the owner, and a passionfruit cocktail<br /><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293273860,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293273860,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="12293273860?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a><strong><em>From left: Wanda Patterson outside her restaurant, Salsa Brava; a passion-fruit cocktail at Salsa Brava. OZZIE HOPPE</em></strong><br />I jumped into the ocean while waiting for my sandwich, a journeycake (her hearty, house-made Caribbean bun) served with vegetables, refried beans, curry sauce, and pico de gallo. After wading in water peppered with shimmers of light, I was eager to have dinner at the restaurant Jammin Vegan, just a three-minute walk from the beach clubs. There, owner Brian “Temps” Templeton, whose Jamaican parents prepared traditional dishes for him while he was growing up in the U.K., makes vegan versions of those childhood recipes. I ate his interpretation of saltfish fritters: patties made of chickpea and wheat flours, chili, and garlic, studded with strips of briny nori and served with a gripping jerk sauce.</p>
<p><strong><em>Pair of photos from Costa Rica, one showing cider on tap, and one showing illuminated string lights at night</em></strong><br /><strong><em>From left: Cider on tap at Cahuita's Taste; string lights at Salsa Brava. OZZIE HOPPE</em></strong></p>
<p>Day 3<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12293276684,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12293276684,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12293276684?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a><br />It felt weird to me to be in the Caribbean and not have oxtail, so I made it my mission to find the dish in Puerto Viejo before I left. At Joe SnackPoint & Caribbean Food, the tender meat was paired with rice and beans. Nearby at Cocomar Comida Caribeña, a refreshing watermelon juice jolted me back to life under a brutal Costa Rican sun.</p>
<p>Back in Limón, La Nena proved a worthy final stop. Looking out at the ocean, breathing in the salt-filled air, I was reminded of the ways this coast has been shaped by the Jamaican community. Conversations of joy and laughter blew across the wind — sustained, at most tables, over a plate of patacones and — what else? — rice and beans.</p>
<p>Source: Travel & Leisure by Kayla Stewart</p></div>
How Jamaica’s Reggae Marathon Has Won the Heart of Runners Across the Globe
https://caribshout.com/blog/how-jamaica-s-reggae-marathon-has-won-the-heart-of-runners-across
2023-10-31T17:12:22.000Z
2023-10-31T17:12:22.000Z
CaribShout
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<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12280852475,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12280852475,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="12280852475?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a><strong>OCHO RIOS, Jamaica</strong> – The Reggae Marathon, for many, is the most transfixing event on the semi-professional running calendar. Urban marathons, such as the New York Marathon and the London Marathon, force runners through blocks and boroughs of densely packed buildings and labyrinthian streets. “The magic moments of Jamaica, of running in Negril, involve having the Seven Mile beach visible throughout the event and finishing the race by running into the Caribbean Sea,” beamed Reggae Marathon sponsorship and marketing director, Diane Ellis.</p>
<h3>Unique Charm of the Reggae Marathon</h3>
<p>Held in the first blush of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, the marathon is a runner’s escape from the seasonal chill that plagues northern countries. The Marathon team chose the early December start date to fill a gap in the busy Negril winter tourist season, making the Reggae Marathon the unofficial starting pistol for the winter season. Participants come for the race and stay to support local industries. They visit concerts, stay at hotels of all sizes, and partake in Negril and Ocho Rios’ vibrant nightlife.</p>
<h3>Allure of The Beach</h3>
<p><a href="https://i0.wp.com/sflcn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Reggae-Marathon-Photo-2-002-jpg.webp?ssl=1"><img class="not-transparent aligncenter size-full wp-image-70940" src="https://i0.wp.com/sflcn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Reggae-Marathon-Photo-2-002-jpg.webp?resize=640%2C427&ssl=1" alt="How Jamaica’s Reggae Marathon Has Won the Heart of Runners Across the Globe" width="640" height="427" /></a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>“I never expected the finish to end at the beach,” gushed filmmaker and Reggae Marathon ambassador, John Lewis. “I’ve lived in Miami for 20 years and have done races there, but we never ended up on the beach.” The community vibe is a significant part of why Lewis will be going back for his second time this year. “At the end of the race, everybody congratulated each other, enjoyed each other’s company, and actually hung out for a while.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Making Lifelong Friends</h3>
<blockquote>
<p>Larry Savitch, a New Yorker and Reggae Marathon veteran, agreed with Lewis. “What has brought me back is that no other race I have ever participated in has given me so many friends, not just acquaintances, but real friends that I chat with several times a year and have seen outside of Negril.”</p>
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<h3>A Growing International Appeal</h3>
<p>Attendance at the Reggae Marathon has steadily grown over the years. In 2022, almost 2000 participants from 35 different countries entered the event. Many came from the US, the UK, and Canada, all nations with large Jamaican diasporas. But, participants also traveled from other Caribbean countries such as Trinidad & Tobago, eastern European countries like Poland, African countries such as Angola, and Asian countries like Japan, among many others.</p>
<p>The growth is the result of determined, boots-on-the-ground work put in by the team behind Reggae Marathon. In the event’s early years, a travel team would set up booths at the expos featured at larger, more established marathons, such as the New York Marathon and the Miami Marathon. Ellis theorizes that the novelty of a middle-to-long-distance event, in the world’s capital of sprint racing, was enough to turn heads. On top of that, December is not an ideal season for marathon running in northern countries. Slippery surfaces that invite dangerous spills, bundles of clothes needed to stay warm but uncomfortable to move in for extended periods, and air so cold that it feels like shards of glass in your lungs with each inhale – none are conducive to comfortable running.</p>
<h3>Community, Music, and Charity</h3>
<p>The first leg of the Reggae Marathon journey is through a torch-lit path that opens up into the main stretch, offering a view of the iconic Seven Mile beach. Runners are enveloped by the clean morning air, and climate change permitting, a Christmas breeze (northerly winds visiting the island). The ‘Reggae’ in Reggae Marathon is more than a name. Music is a fundamental aspect of the experience.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12280854479,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12280854479,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="12280854479?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>The renowned Silver Birds Steel Band Orchestra plays at different legs, working through a discography of classic Jamaican songs and iconic pop covers. Mobile music DJs outfit their cars as mini sound systems and drive past booming music, everything from Reggae classics to Afrobeats chart-toppers, rallying the runners. The event finishes in front of the shoreline, and runners are encouraged to jog right into the sea for the perfect cooldown.</p>
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<p>“The end of your race is just the beginning of another party with Reggae, refreshments (Red Stripe beer and fresh coconut water straight from the coconut), and, most importantly, the Caribbean Sea, which is life-giving and healing just to soak in. Vacation starts up again!” beamed Savitch.</p>
<p>It all combines to make the Reggae Marathon an excellent starting competition for those curious about long-distance running. “There’s no better place to run a half marathon,” Lewis proclaimed. “You can be competitive if you want, but you can also just enjoy your time there.”</p>
<p>Savitch again agreed. “If you want to have fun and enjoy the sunshine and music, this is the perfect race for rookies and seasoned runners,” he said.</p>
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<h3>Charitable Donations</h3>
<p>Many groups compete in the event together, such as the Reggae Runnerz, a group of participants from the diaspora. Reggae Runnerz includes anywhere between 200 and 450 members each year. This group has made sizable donations to the Green Island community, a small coastal town near Negril. Donations help to support the local high school and even funding excursions to the Penn Relays. Another group is a collective of medical practitioners who volunteer at Negril’s clinics after participating.</p>
<p>The charitable energy permeates throughout the event and trickles down from the organizers. One of the partners is the Heart Foundation of Jamaica which offers affordable medical care. Care including scans and testing for heart disease, and participants are encouraged to donate funds when possible.</p>
<p>The marathon also partners with the SOS Children’s Village in Kingston to bring on volunteers to the event. The children are transported to Negril and exposed to the marathon’s best-in-class organization.</p>
<p>This year’s <a href="https://www.reggaemarathon.com/?v=7516fd43adaa" target="_blank"><strong>Marathon is on December 3, 2023</strong></a>, and promises the same one-of-a-kind combination of vibes, music, charity, and fun.</p></div>
St. Vincent and The Grenadines Tourism Minister Welcomes Sandals International
https://caribshout.com/blog/st-vincent-and-the-grenadines-tourism-minister-welcomes-sandals-i
2023-10-31T15:49:23.000Z
2023-10-31T15:49:23.000Z
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<p>St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture, Hon. Carlos James is delighted to extend a warm and enthusiastic welcome to Sandals Resorts International as they establish their presence in our beautiful island nation. This exciting development marks a significant step forward in our continued efforts to bolster tourism and enhance the economic prosperity of SVG.</p>
<p>Sandals Resorts International recently announced the opening of the brand’s eighteenth resort in the Caribbean at Buccament Bay, on mainland St. Vincent scheduled for March 27th, 2024. Minister James embraced the news of this prestigious brand in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and anticipates increased visitors from the USA, St. Vincent, and the Grenadines main market. “Americans have shown great confidence in our destination, and this is evidenced by year-over-year increases in visitor arrivals from the USA,” said Minister James. “With increased airlift on the horizon, access to our multi-island destination will give Americans more options to fly to SVG and we welcome Sandals 300–room property to our list of ultra luxury and exclusive offerings, and this will add significant value to our tourism product”. </p>
<p>The Tourism Minster expressed his optimism about the numerous benefits that Sandals Hotels will bring to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He highlighted the anticipation of a positive spill-off effect, which will not only benefit the hospitality sector but also have a far-reaching impact on various other industries within the country.</p>
<p>Furthermore, Minister James emphasized the potential increase in the sale of local produce. Sandals’ commitment to sourcing food and other products locally, will undoubtedly boost our agricultural sector, leading to higher sales of fish, fruits, vegetables, and other locally sourced items. This aligns perfectly with our government’s efforts to support local farmers and producers.</p>
<p>St. Vincent and the Grenadines is on the cusp of an exciting 2024. In addition to the 300-room Sandals property, a 93-room Holiday Inn Express is scheduled to also open in the coming year, just in time for the announcement that St. Vincent and the Grenadines will host five matches of the International Cricket Council (ICC) championship in June 2024. Additionally, construction for Marriott Hotels on mainland St. Vincent is scheduled to start next year.</p>
<p>Minister James said, “St. Vincent and the Grenadines, known for its high-end exclusive luxury offerings on the Grenadine islands, is now opening its mainland, St. Vincent, as a major tourism hub.” Currently, the only Mandarin Oriental Hotel and Soho House in the Caribbean operate on Canouan, and Mustique is known for its high-end villas. Petit St. Vincent Resort and Palm Island Resort offer luxury and seclusion and a string of boutique hotels in the multi-island destination provide exclusive accommodation.</p>
<p>In conclusion, the Minister of Tourism, Hon. Carlos James extends his heartfelt appreciation to Sandals Resorts International for choosing St. Vincent and the Grenadines as their destination of choice. He is confident that this collaboration will not only elevate our tourism industry but also contribute significantly to the economic development and prosperity of our beautiful island nation.</p>
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A Caribbean native shares the one thing she wishes tourists did when they visit
https://caribshout.com/blog/a-caribbean-native-shares-the-one-thing-she-wishes-tourists-did-w
2023-10-28T01:09:03.000Z
2023-10-28T01:09:03.000Z
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<p style="text-align:center;">Riselle Celestina always encourages travelers to kick start a question or conversation with a friendly greeting. <span class="image-source headline-regular"><a class="image-source-link not-content-link" href="https://thetravelingislandgirl.com/">The Traveling Island Girl</a></span></p>
<p>One of Riselle Celestina's favorite parts about <a href="https://www.insider.com/annoying-things-tourists-do-in-caribbean-according-to-local-2023-9" target="_blank">living in a tourist</a> destination is getting to show visitors the magic of the place she calls home. Celestina, who was born and raised in the Caribbean and now lives on St. Maarten, told Insider that the top thing tourists should do when they visit is say hello to locals and create relationships.</p>
<p>Saying hello "is super important to us," Celestina — who shares insights like this about her home on her travel blog, <a href="https://thetravelingislandgirl.com/" target="_blank">The Traveling Island Girl</a>, and her podcast, "<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2200801" target="_blank">Paradise Perspectives</a>" — told Insider.</p>
<p>"We locals are a very friendly bunch, but we tend to get offended when you don't greet us before you ask a question," Celestina previously said on her YouTube channel <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5uF9_qcRvg" target="_blank">The Traveling Island Girl</a>. </p>
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<li>Riselle Celestina was born and raised in the Caribbean and now lives on the island of St. Maarten.</li>
<li>The travel writer has explored dozens of islands and helps incoming travelers plan their trips.</li>
<li>She said saying hello or asking about someone's day can kick-start relationships with locals. </li>
</ul>
<p>Celestina wears many hats in her day-to-day life in St. Maarten.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12270039056,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12270039056,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12270039056?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a></p>
<p>When she's not blogging or podcasting about the Caribbean, she's managing the bar she owns on the island of St. Maarten. And when she's not doing that, she's meeting with tourists and taking them on adventures across her home. </p>
<p>In all these roles, she said she constantly <a href="https://www.insider.com/worst-tourists-2017-2017-12">encounters tourists</a>. Travelers might enter her bar to ask for directions or a restaurant recommendation. If she's showing visitors her home or walking around the island, a tourist might stop her to ask a question.</p>
<p>Celestina said she welcomes these encounters and is thrilled to give advice — but the polite way is to start the interaction with a greeting, like asking locals how their day is going and if they have a minute to answer a question. </p>
<p>While this may seem like obvious advice, Celestina said she's surprised how often tourists forget to greet a local. Instead, they approach her and others with questions, concerns, and requests without taking a moment to stop and introduce themselves. </p>
<p>She said slowing down and saying hello can open the door to exchanging stories and perspectives — and ultimately, she says that's one of the best parts about traveling. </p></div>
Why Grenada Should Be The Next Caribbean Island On Your Bucket List
https://caribshout.com/blog/why-grenada-should-be-the-next-caribbean-island-on-your-bucket-li
2023-10-12T19:51:51.000Z
2023-10-12T19:51:51.000Z
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<p>t might just be one of the Caribbean's most underrated destinations, but with pristine beaches, luxury hotels, and a thriving culinary scene, Grenada is quickly revealing itself as the gem of the West Indies. The young country — which will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Feb. 7, 2024 — has been smashing records this year, welcoming 39% more American visitors in 2023 than pre-Covid (2019). Today, the U.S. accounts for more than 60% of the tiny island’s travelers, due in part to its proximity to the States (Grenada is less than four hours away from Miami by plane), <a href="https://www.boston.com/travel/flights/2023/06/13/jetblue-launching-service-boston-grenada/" target="_blank">new regular flight itineraries</a>, and a generous <a href="https://citizenremote.com/visas/grenada-digital-nomad-visa/" target="_blank">digital nomad visa</a> program. Expect more to come with the imminent openings of <a href="https://www.silversandsgrenada.com/beachhouse" target="_blank">Silversands Beach House</a> and <a href="https://www.sixsenses.com/en/corporate/media-center/press-releases/2020/six-senses-dreams-of-paradise-found-at-six-senses-la-sagesse-grenada" target="_blank">Six Senses La Sagesse</a>, the brand’s debut Caribbean resort.</p>
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<p>“Visitors to Grenada value the escape from reality: beaches, prime resorts, and relaxation,” says Petra Roach, CEO of Grenada Tourism Authority. “Regardless of the type of trip you’re taking — adventure, relaxation, or a work-from-vacation — Grenada has plenty to share and discover during your stay.”</p>
<p>In recent years, Grenada has become beloved among in-the-know travelers for its unspoiled nature, cultural experiences, authentic restaurants, and eco-tourism. If you’re looking for a tropical paradise dense with waterfalls, rainforest, and postcard-worthy beaches — that also happens to house the longest infinity pool in the Caribbean — you’ve found your spot. Here’s how to make the most of a vacation there.</p>
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<cite>Brandon Rosenblum/Moment/Getty Images</cite></div>
<h2><strong>Hit Up The Beach</strong></h2>
<p>Grenada might be small, but with 75 miles of pristine coastline, it still has some of the Caribbean’s most stunning stretches of sand. Just 6 miles from the capital of Saint George’s, Grand Anse Beach’s sparkling white sand remains beautiful despite its central location and perpetual popularity. It’s an ideal location for watersports such as parasailing, kayaking, or water skiing. For something more low-key, try its overlooked neighbor Morne Rouge Beach, where locals come to wade into the calm, turquoise water and snack on fish tacos at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g8283306-d8342300-Reviews-La_Plywood_Beach_Bar_Food-Morne_Rouge_Saint_George_Parish_Grenada.html" target="_blank">La Plywood Beach Bar</a>.</p>
<h2><strong>Chase Waterfalls</strong></h2>
<p>Grenada’s lush, mountainous interior means that the fun doesn’t stop on the coastline. Throughout the island’s rainforest, you’ll discover 18 gorgeous waterfalls, including Annandale Falls (just a 20-minute drive from St. Georges) and the magnificent Seven Sisters, located within <a href="https://www.puregrenada.com/product/grand-etang-national-park-forest-reserve/" target="_blank">Grand Etang National Park</a>. As you hike to the falls, keep your eyes open for adorable monkeys and bright tropical birds.</p>
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<div class="pxF mvL s-63868967"><img class="N4z" src="https://imgix.bustle.com/uploads/shutterstock/2023/9/27/1fd16aef-6ece-4a7f-bf31-b5b1fe28f657-shutterstock-2173001279.jpg?w=414&h=621&fit=crop&crop=faces&auto=format%2Ccompress" alt="Seven Sisters Waterfalls in Grenada Grand Etang National Park" /></div>
<cite>Shutterstock</cite></div>
<div class="adWrapper kG8 zzk k_e UdU stickyScrollableRailAd"> <strong>Indulge Your Sweet Tooth</strong></div>
<p>Grenada isn’t just the Spice Island; these days it’s turning into a chocolate one, too. One of the few places in the world where chocolate is produced from bean to bar (meaning the farmers are involved in every step of the process), Grenada’s volcanic soil and hilly terrain are ideal for growing the Criollo and Trinitario trees from which fine flavor cocoa is made (only 12% of the world’s exported beans have this designation from the International Cocoa Organization). Treat yourself to some single-origin chocolate and learn how award-winning bars are made at <a href="https://belmontestategrenada.com/" target="_blank">Belmont Estate</a>, a 300-acre farm, and <a href="https://www.jouvaychocolate.com/" target="_blank">Jouvay Chocolate</a>, where you can wash down your snack with chocolate beer.</p>
<h2><strong>Sail Into The Sunset</strong></h2>
<p>Steeped in boating tradition, Grenada is a Caribbean sailing hot spot. (A slew of sheltered anchorages, calm waters, and year-round good weather don’t hurt, either.) To really get into the Grenadian spirit, book a tour with <a href="https://savvygrenada.com/" target="_blank">Savvy Sailing</a>. Run by local boat builders and fishermen, the charter company helps keep the 200-year-old legacy of hand-building wooden sloops alive; a part of the country’s West Indian heritage that very nearly <a href="https://vanishingsail.com/" target="_blank">disappeared</a>. Choose from a relaxed sunset cruise (complete with the requisite rum punch) or a full-day adventure to neighboring Carriacou or Calypso Island.</p>
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<div class="BCT"><strong style="font-size:1.5em;">Dive Into Adventure</strong></div>
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<div>Home to the world’s first <a href="https://www.underwatersculpture.com/projects/molinere-underwater-sculpture-park/" target="_blank">underwater sculpture park</a> (created by British “eco-artist” Jason de Caires Taylor, who wanted to use contemporary sculptures as an artificial reef for corals) as well as plenty of shallow dive sites, Grenada makes an excellent underwater classroom for new divers. Looking for something more thrilling? Grenada is also the final resting place of more than 15 shipwrecks, including the 400-foot <em>Bianca C,</em> often referred to as the Titanic of the Caribbean. Sign up for a course or guided dive with <a href="https://www.aquanautsgrenada.com/" target="_blank">Aquanauts Grenada</a> or <a href="https://divegrenada.com/" target="_blank">Dive Grenada</a>.</div>
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<h2><strong>Savor Grenadian Specialties</strong></h2>
<p>Dubbed Spice Island due to its history as an exporter of nutmeg, cinnamon, bay leaves, and other spices, Grenada has earned a reputation for flavorful food. Try out some Caribbean cuisine at <a href="http://www.bbscrabbackrestaurant.com/i_main_courses.html" target="_blank">BB’s Crabback</a>, where locals and tourists alike dig into favorites like jerk chicken, saltfish souse, and the restaurant’s signature crabback (crab baked with herbs, wine, and cheese sauce served in a crab shell). On Wednesday evenings, head over to <a href="https://www.truebluebay.com/restaurant/dodgy-dock-restaurant-and-bar" target="_blank">Dodgy Dock Restaurant and Bar</a> to sample an array of street food from some of the island’s most popular vendors and listen to live music by the water. Don’t miss Grenada’s national dish, oil down, a one-pot meal of salted meats and fresh vegetables stewed in coconut milk. For a romantic night out, <a href="https://www.mountcinnamongrenadahotel.com/" target="_blank">Mount Cinnamon</a>’s open-air clubhouse <a href="https://www.mountcinnamongrenadahotel.com/dining/" target="_blank">Savvy’s</a> serves farm-to-table, elevated classics like callaloo soup with nutmeg creme fraiche and pan-roasted barracuda with breadfruit and thyme puree.</p>
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<div class="BCT"><strong style="font-size:1.5em;">Where To Stay</strong></div>
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<p>Set on the powder white sands of Grand Anse Beach, <a href="https://www.silversandsgrenada.com/" target="_blank">Silversands Grenada</a> boasts prime real estate, yet feels like a world unto itself. The island’s top luxury resort, guests can expect airy, high-tech bedrooms where everything from room service to blackout shades are controlled by a custom phone app, an encyclopedic rum bar, and an indulgent spa that offers restorative massages on a warm bed made of crushed rose quartz crystals. (The heat is designed to open your pores and help them absorb the crystal’s energy; yes, it’s extremely comfortable.) You’ll probably spend most of your stay laying out by the 330-foot infinity pool — the aforementioned longest in the Caribbean — and there’s nothing wrong with that. For dinner, arrange a private feast of jerk oyster mushrooms, watermelon sushi, and meatless meatballs in one of the resort’s jaw-dropping villas with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/joachimjammeal/?hl=en" target="_blank">Joachim Jammeal</a>, Grenada’s celebrity plant-based chef.</p></div>
Bequia: Is This The Caribbean’s Best-Kept Secret?
https://caribshout.com/blog/bequia-is-this-the-caribbean-s-best-kept-secret
2023-09-19T00:06:14.000Z
2023-09-19T00:06:14.000Z
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<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12227457287,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12227457287,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="12227457287?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></a>Flung some 15km south of the island of St Vincent, deep in the Windward Islands, sits Bequia, a tiny, seven-mile stretch of land, moulded with prehistoric-looking, verdant hills. It’s one of the rare Caribbean islands which retains an untouched, barefoot feel about it.</p>
<p>Pronounced ‘Beck-way’, the island’s name translates as ‘Island of the Clouds’, lyrically named by the ancient Arawaks, who were the island’s first people. You understand why when you come into land on the island’s grassy runway – which from the sky looks perilously short. As you hold your breath, you cut through lilac and pink-fringed puffs of cloud, beams of sunlight escaping, causing an almost-spiritual halo effect in the golden hour <em>and</em> a fleeting moment of awe – if not a silent thanks to the gods – among the passengers. </p>
<p>Sundown is, in fact, the perfect time to arrive in Bequia. As you bump along the south coast road, past conch-pink houses and sky-blue fruit stands, you’ll catch the thump of a reggae tune’s deep baseline in the air. Stallholders and sailors, packing up for the day, wave their hands in desultory greeting. Meanwhile, the dying sun gives the tangerine hibiscus a lazy nudge so it slowly gasps its heady scent on to the breeze. It’s the ultimate Caribbean welcome.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12227464074,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12227464074,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12227464074?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a></p>
<p>Unlike its more glitzy neighbour of Barbados, found 120 miles away to the west, there are no large resorts on Bequia. Sure, there’s a smattering of faded guest houses and shuttered villas to rent, but <a class="color-link" title="https://www.bequiabeachhotel.com" href="https://www.bequiabeachhotel.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Bequia Beach Hotel</strong></a> is the main place to stay on the island. Charmingly low-key, you are greeted with a fiery rum punch in the lobby lounge – which, with its twirling rattan fans, vintage suitcases and low-slung armchairs made of lacquered bamboo – oozes an old-school, 1940s’ appeal. Just after the heavens open, and a one-minute downpour cascades from the skies, you are shown to your room, padding along in the dusk as tree frogs bounce out of the way and cicadas offer you a cacophonous lullaby to say good night.</p>
<p>Dinner brings skewers of barbecued amberjack, jerk chicken and rice ‘n’ peas, while calypso is played in the background. You could be tempted to ‘whine ya waist’, but, mostly, it’s an early night for new arrivals. But, then again, every night is one which sees lights out before midnight for most holidaymakers here. And that’s the way Bequians like it – most people are up early to face another kaleidoscopic day – turquoise seas, cobalt skies and violet bougainvillea have <em>that</em> effect – and jobs need to be done before the midday’s heat turns up a notch.</p>
<p>Your mornings at Bequia Beach Hotel quickly take on a new routine. The hotel is set dreamily on the horse-shoe-shaped Friendship Bay. First, there’s a dip in the sea, and then a stroll along the impossibly pretty shoreline, collecting polished sea glass as you dry off. Breakfast is a laid-back affair – a platter of pineapple, a glass of soursop and a mushroom omelette, with a side of fried plantain, always does the trick. Eat it slowly, you’ll not be rushed here.</p>
<p>As you gaze out from the terrace, Mustique – the outpost of royals and rock-stars; aristocrats and autocrats – glimmers in the distance. The enclave of the rich and famous is like a private members’ club on sea, with its super-yachts and mega-villas, including Les Jolies Eaux, the house famously belonging to Princess Margaret. It’s a fun place to see, even if it’s for half a day. Luckily Bequia Beach Hotel has its own 35-metre Benetti yacht, <em>The Star of the Seas</em>, to take you. So, you’ll arrive in style, if not a little green around the gills, due to the Atlantic swell on the crossing. It’s quickly fixed by heading to Basil’s Bar for a margarita and – once you feel steady again – a grilled Mahi burger with hot sauce.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12227465096,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12227465096,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12227465096?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a>While Mustique is renowned for its glitzy residents – you can’t move for A-listers (Mick Jagger, Tommy Hilfiger and Bryan Adams are just a few of the names who own pastel-hued mansions on the island) – Bequia couldn’t be more different.</p>
<p>You could argue that all the Caribbean is about the sea. Let’s face it, you’re never far from the shore on an island. But in Bequia, the maritime connection goes deeper. This is still a place where fishing offers a main source of income and, as you poodle around the archipelago, you realise how connected the people are to the ocean. Along the coastline, you’ll spot fishermen gutting their catches on the rocks – squawking, black seabirds a sure sign of the barracuda, tuna and snapper being bought out of the waves.</p>
<p>In Admiralty Bay, on the south-west of the island, the sparkling waters are dotted with the crisp white sails of catamarans and yachts of all sizes. The sheltered bay has long attracted seaman and explorers, pirates and buccaneers, including the infamous Blackbeard who landed here in 1717.</p>
<p>Bequians are known are some of the finest shipwrights in the world, and in the harbour town of Port Elizabeth, this skill is materialised in miniature form at the Sargeant Brother’s Model Boat Shop. Here, intricate models of ships and sailing boats are meticulously crafted by hand by the two Sargeant siblings. Their talent is spread by word of mouth among the sailing community, with many yachties having commissioned intricate models of their own boats over the years – the tiny versions taking months to make with some costing upwards of £10,000.</p>
<p>Bequia is also one of the few places in the world where, controversially, whaling is still allowed once a year. It was introduced by ‘Yankee’ whalers in the mid-19<sup>th</sup> century, who taught local sailors how to catch whales. Nowadays, no more than four whales are allowed to be landed each year. In reality, very few of the mammals are caught, although the whale symbol is seen everywhere around the island – painted on walls and signs and is even the unofficial logo of the land.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12227472454,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12227472454,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12227472454?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a></p>
<p>“When the alarm goes to signify that a whale has been caught, everyone downs tools and heads to the south,” says Maria, a local tour guide. “It’s like a carnival atmosphere. But it is important to understand – we do not catch them for profit, and no part of the whale is wasted. There’s respect. This is part of our culture and our tradition.”</p>
<p>Bequia Beach Hotel also has its roots in the sea. It was discovered by its Swedish owner, Bengt Mortstedt,while he was sailing around the Grenadines, arriving with his family on New Year’s Eve back in 1992. Transfixed by its sleepy nature “much like a vintage postcard from the Caribbean,” he continued to return to the island over the years, until he spotted a closed B&B up for sale. With a vision of languid family holidays in mind, he slowly set about transforming the dilapidated property, buying up adjoining land in the process. “Initially, I just wanted a low-key place for all the family to stay,” he says. Instead, what was going to be a villa gradually grew into a hotel, opening in 2009, symbolically on New Year’s Eve.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12227465883,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12227465883,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="400" alt="12227465883?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></a></p>
<p>Bequia Beach Hotel is like an insider’s secret address – a place where, once discovered, people return to, year after year. “We have a couple who have been coming for the past ten years,” says Bengt. “And another guest who stayed for 66 days.” </p>
<p>With its naïve, hand-written signs, pineapple prints and colonial-style four poster beds, the hotel has an old-time cosiness to it and is gloriously unpretentious. You can stay in a range of accommodation – from beachfront suites to cute garden cottages. The décor is similar wherever you lay your head, with kitsch parrot lamps, retro travel posters and palm-print textiles adding a touch of fun as well as pops of colour to the pastel backdrop.</p>
<p>By day, you can laze by the saltwater infinity pool, wondering what to choose for lunch at Bagatelle. Maybe, later on, you’ll head to Blue Tropic for an Italian-style dinner. You can even take a transfer to Jack’s Bar, on the northern side of the island, also owned by Bengt. Don’t miss the conch croquettes and lobster mac & cheese, which you’ll chow down while rubbing shoulders with young crew members, local sea dogs and celebrities, alike.</p>
<p>While nothing seems to change much at Bequia Beach Hotel – and that’s decidedly its charm – in fact, Bengt – who describes himself as an “accidental hotelier” – has continuously made tweaks and improvements over the years.</p>
<p>His newest project – <strong>Grenadine Hills</strong> – will set the bar higher on the island when it comes to places to stay. The new collection of ultra-luxury villas was launched last year with two properties now available to rent. Villa One – a six bedroom home has its own infinity pool, wine cellar and gardens studded with passion-fruit trees. Coral Hill, meanwhile, has five bedrooms and sweeping views over the southern Grenadines. A sprawling living area, gym, games room and pool mean this is the perfect space for extended family holidays.</p>
<div class="image-embed__placeholder"><img src="https://imageio.forbes.com/specials-images/imageserve/637fbadeb03d22931e459798/VillaONE-Living-Room-Hero/960x0.jpg?format=jpg&width=1440" alt="VillaONE-Living Room Hero" /></div>
<p class="color-body light-text">You are never far from the sea in Villa One.</p>
<small>(CREDIT: BEQUIA BEACH HOTEL)</small>
<p>Next spring, a third villa – an eight-bedroom house – will be launched with locally-influenced architecture and Caribbean design touches. Named Rock Villa, it will be snazzy enough to beckon in marauding rock stars who might have lost their way from Mustique. But that’s not the intent. Bequia – with its shell-encrusted homes, low-fi watering holes and breezy churches, which call in congregations in their ‘Sunday Best’ each week – is too real for anything <em>too</em> fancy.</p>
<div class="image-embed__placeholder"><img src="https://imageio.forbes.com/specials-images/imageserve/637fbb3b968be4d185f35930/DJI-0501/960x0.jpg?format=jpg&width=1440" alt="DJI_0501" /></div>
<p class="color-body light-text">Bequia has an untouched quality about it.</p>
<small>(CREDIT: BEQUIA BEACH HOTEL)</small>
<p>“Maybe there are a few more cars, but Bequia has barely changed since I first arrived here,” says Bengt. “The only thing that truly surprises you is the sunset.”</p>
<p>Talking of which, the west of the island, by the old fort, is the best place to watch the sun go down. Each dusk brings a changing vision – golden rays cast across the sky, sometimes crimson, other times amber – celestial skies as if taken from a Tiepolo painting. It’s the only thing that really changes here.</p>
<p><a class="color-link" title="https://www.bequiabeachhotel.com" href="https://www.bequiabeachhotel.com/" target="_blank"><strong><em>bequiabeachhotel.com</em></strong></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p></div>
This Paradise Island Was Named Best In The Caribbean This Year
https://caribshout.com/blog/this-paradise-island-was-named-best-in-the-caribbean-this-year
2023-09-11T16:12:12.000Z
2023-09-11T16:12:12.000Z
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<p>The Caribbean seems to be everyone’s go-to sunny getaway. With its white sands bounded by rows upon rows of palm trees, crystal-clear oceans, and warmer culture and environment, it’s no surprise it <strong>leads booking trends among North Americans</strong>.</p>
<p>Despite often being treated as a single entity, it is incredibly diverse, comprising at least thirteen sovereign countries and many other autonomous territories of larger states. There are so many islands, each one of them incredibly unique, that you may find it hard to pick a single destination.</p>
<p>If you’re still undecided as to where you should jet off in the tropical sea for your long-awaited yearly break, this Caribbean destination in particular was named the <strong>best island to visit within the basin</strong>:</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The DR Is Voted The Best Caribbean Island</h3>
<p>The Dominican Republic has been proclaimed the <strong>Best Caribbean Island</strong> in the world at <em>Global Traveler</em>‘s reader-voted Leisure Lifestyle Awards.</p>
<p>In its 11th year, the prestigious award ranks the very best in the world in terms of both leisure and ‘lifestyle travel’, recognizing destinations, hotels, airlines, airports, cruises, and many more sectors of the travel industry for their excellence. <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12222060066,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12222060066,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="12222060066?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a></p>
<p>For the third year in a row, the small Hispanic nation brought home the coveted award, beating fierce competitors like <a href="https://www.traveloffpath.com/this-is-why-americans-continue-to-visit-jamaica-despite-recent-crime-surge/" target="_blank">Jamaica</a>, the Dutch territories of Aruba and Curacao, Cuba, Barbados, and numerous other popular Caribbean hotspots to the number one spot.</p>
<p>In total, <strong>the Caribbean is made up of over 700 islands</strong>, though only 100 or so are permanently inhabited, making this <em>a big win </em>for the Dominican Republic, commonly shortened to just DR.</p>
<p>Though it is an island destination, the DR does not hold sovereignty over the whole of the territory of the island it (partially) occupies.</p>
<p>It is located on the Eastern half of the historic island of Hispaniola, settled by the Spanish upon their initial incursions across the Atlantic.</p>
<p>Conflicts between European powers, who were constantly at war to establish dominance in the Caribbean, resulted in Hispaniola being<strong> split between Spanish and French colonies</strong>, which upon their independence, became the Dominican Republic and Haiti.</p>
<p>Haiti occupies the other half of Hispaniola, and it’s the only country to share a land border with the DR, though they couldn’t be further apart in terms of human development, social issues, and infrastructure.</p>
<p>While Haiti has been faced with a humanitarian crisis for over a decade now, which very few tourists would dare venture into, its more well-off neighbor has consistently kept its status as <a href="https://www.traveloffpath.com/4-reasons-why-the-dominican-republic-is-breaking-all-time-tourism-records/" target="_blank">a major tourist destination</a> in the Caribbean, as well as a rising global hub.</p>
<p>Home to <strong>one of the most popular resort towns in the region</strong>, the paradisaical <a href="https://www.traveloffpath.com/why-punta-cana-is-one-of-the-top-destinations-for-american-travelers-this-summer/" target="_blank">Punta Cana</a>, and some of the oldest European settlements in the New World, including the bustling capital of Santo Domingo, it is not only packed with swimming sites and unspoiled beaches: it brims with culture.</p>
<p>There is something for <strong><em>everybody </em></strong>here. </p>
<p>If it’s beaches and utter relaxation you’re after, there is an extensive list of all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana, where your only concern will be ensuring you’ve applied enough sunscreen ahead of your sunbathing session at the property’s private sandy stretch.</p>
<p>From Melia to Iberostar and Marriot’s signature AC Hotel, the options are endless, and it can be hard to choose the perfect resort for your sunny break, but in <a href="https://www.traveloffpath.com/5-reasons-this-is-the-best-beachfront-all-inclusive-resort-in-punta-cana-for-american-travelers/" target="_blank">this article, </a>we give you 5 reasons why this marvelous, incredibly well-equipped luxury haven might be the right pick.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12222062059,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12222062059,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12222062059?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>Puerto Plata is yet another popular resort area, celebrated for its turquoise waters and busy nightlife, while La Romana is a strong favorite among travelers looking to slow down and truly unwind without the jungle parties and busy club scene. </p>
<p>line, there are both areas with a fast-developing resort zone, known for their lively social scene and wide availability of services, and c<strong>ompletely pristine, remote coastal strips</strong> where the only sounds are that of exotic birds chirping in nature, the ruffling of the palms against the wind, and the crashing of the waves.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">An Underrated Cultural Destination</h3>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12222063692,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12222063692,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="12222063692?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>Beyond the beaches, the DR is a country replete with Spanish-era landmarks that have stood the test of time and are scattered around the Western portion of the island it controls. </p>
<p>A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the capital of Santo Domingo has a<strong> beautiful colonial core</strong> where the colorful Spanish facades, Baroque churches, and Neo-Gothic monuments have been preserved.</p>
<p>The walls of Santo Domingo are not to be missed either; recognized by UNESCO as the oldest European fortification in the Americas, it was built in the early 16th century by Spanish colonizers.</p>
<p>The landmark Ozama Fortress, where Christopher Columbus himself was imprisoned once, is part of the complex and it’s open to visitors. Comprised of smaller turrets, a high tower, and defensive ramparts, <strong>it looks like any average European castle</strong>. <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12222064501,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12222064501,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12222064501?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a></p>
<p>A majority of the 16th-century Spanish structures is concentrated in Santo Domingo, but other impressive Spanish structures can be found in Puerto Plata (<em>Fortaleza de San Felipe</em>), the Altos de Chavon, where tourists can explore the replica of a Mediterranean village, and Santiago de los Caballeros (<em>Fortaleza San Luis</em>).</p>
<p>A majority of the 16th-century Spanish structures is concentrated in Santo Domingo, but other impressive Spanish structures can be found in Puerto Plata (<em>Fortaleza de San Felipe</em>), the Altos de Chavon, where tourists can explore the replica of a Mediterranean village, and Santiago de los Caballeros (<em>Fortaleza San Luis</em>).</p>
<p><strong>Is the DR your dream destination?</strong></p>
<p>You’re in luck, as this year, several new nonstop flight routes leaving from the U.S. have been announced, bringing you closer to the Old World charm of Santo Domingo and Punta Cana’s <strong>postcard-ready beach huts</strong>.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.traveloffpath.com/jetblue-launches-new-flights-to-the-dominican-republic/" target="_blank">https://www.traveloffpath.com/jetblue-launches-new-flights-to-the-dominican-republic/</a></p></div>
In Puerto Rico, a New Brand for a Classic Marriott Hotel
https://caribshout.com/blog/in-puerto-rico-a-new-brand-for-a-classic-marriott-hotel
2023-03-05T01:20:36.000Z
2023-03-05T01:20:36.000Z
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<p style="text-align:center;"><em>The beach at the La Concha resort in Puerto Rico, now part of Marriott's Autograph Collection.</em></p>
<p>For almost a half-century, it has been the resort you simply can’t miss if you’re in San Juan’s buzzy Condado neighborhood: La Concha, the tropical masterpiece by Toro Ferrer. </p>
<p>That includes a large-scale renovation project of the mid-century classic back in 2008, when the hotel joined Marriott’s Renaissance brand. (What didn’t change was the signature seashell). </p>
<p>And now La Concha is once again getting new life, set to become the first-ever member of Marriott’s Autograph Collection in Puerto Rico. </p>
<p>John Paulson’s Paulson & Co, which has owned the resort since 2014, has announced the move, which is being accompanied by a “full renovation,” to the tune of $45 million. </p>
<p>“La Concha Resort has had a long-standing relationship with Marriott, previously forming part of its Renaissance Hotels group for 15 years. Joining Marriott’s Autograph Collection is a huge step forward in La Concha’s legacy as one of Puerto Rico’s premier hotels,” said John Paulson, President of Paulson & Co. “With this partnership, our guests will enjoy new levels of luxury and an enhanced guest experience.”</p>
<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}10992703656,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}10992703656,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="10992703656?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a><br />
The signature design element has never changed.
<p>That renovation project will include all 238 oceanfront suites, along with the addition of a new spa and an upgraded Beach Club. </p>
<p>La Concha is also adding the new Tekka Bar, a sushi concept by restaurateur Takashi Segawa famous for its location at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas. </p>
<p>And that’s no accident — the hotel has already been upping its Vegas factor in recent years, most notably with the <a href="https://www.caribjournal.com/2022/02/11/puerto-rico-betmgm-sports-betting/">launch of the first-ever BetMGM Sportsbook in the Caribbean</a>, and the Fifty Eight Club, where Bad Bunny has had several performances, both at the property’s Casino Del Mar. </p>
<p>La Concha is part of the Condado Collection of hotels owned and operated by Paulson Puerto Rico, along with the Condado Vanderbilt and the Condado Ocean Club. </p>
<p>Paulson also owns the St Regis Hotel and Spa on Bahia Beach in Puerto Rico. <br /> La “Perla” will soon be home to a signature eatery.</p>
<p>The large-scale renovation (which will also include an as-yet-unnamed eatery in the hotel’s iconic Perla space) could provide new life for a hotel that has always been one of the most recognizable places to stay in Puerto Rico. <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}10992707074,RESIZE_180x180{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}10992707074,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="10992707074?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></a>For more, visit <a href="https://www.laconcharesort.com/">La Concha</a>. </p></div>
Frontier Airlines names plane in honour of 'Butch' Stewart
https://caribshout.com/blog/frontier-airlines-names-plane-in-honour-of-butch-stewart
2022-11-24T04:28:54.000Z
2022-11-24T04:28:54.000Z
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<div class="image-caption" style="text-align:left;">President and CEO of Frontier Airlines Barry Biffle (right) is presented with a copy of the 284-page souvenir magazine on the life and legacy of Gordon "Butch" Stewart by Stewart's son Adam earlier this year in Montego Bay during a series of high-level meetings between local tourism players and international airline partners. The magazine was produced and printed by the Jamaica Observer.</div>
<p class="article__body" style="text-align:left;"><strong id="strong-1">MONTEGO BAY, St James — In honour of the significant contribution the late Gordon "Butch" Stewart has made to Jamaica's tourism industry Frontier Airlines will next year début a 240-passenger aircraft named in his honour. The Airbus A321 Neo will also have a picture of Jamaica's colourful national bird on its tailfin.</strong></p>
<p class="article__body">Frontier Airlines President and CEO Barry Biffle made the announcement on Thursday during a ceremony at Sandals Montego Bay.</p>
<p class="article__body">"In honour of Butch Stewart — the Stewart family has probably done more for tourism in Jamaica than anyone — the name of this aircraft will be Stewart, the Red-Billed Streamertail," he said.</p>
<p class="article__body">The words will appear near the plane's nose. The news was well received by the Sandals team. "For an airline to make that honour, to name an aircraft in the name of our founder is really touching and we're proud of that fact," general manager of Sandals Montego Bay Christopher Elliott said after the announcement.</p>
<p class="article__body">"We're very proud, we're extremely proud as an organisation that an airline — which is not owned by us — is recognising the contribution that Sandals has made to tourism, not only in Jamaica but throughout the Caribbean," he added.</p>
<p class="article__body">Biffle did not provide an exact date for the aircraft's début but said it will be used for an average of five flights per day once added to Frontier's fleet. He reminded guests at the function that Stewart had been instrumental in getting the low-cost carrier to operate in Jamaica and spoke of Frontier's ongoing efforts to build on that legacy.</p>
<p class="article__body">"We are working hard to become the hometown airline of Jamaica. It's making it easier for the tourists to come here, make it more affordable to come to Jamaica… and to travel to the United States as well," he said.</p>
<p class="article__body">Frontier now offers service from nine gateways in the United States to Jamaica and there are plans to add two more flights next year. Biffle anticipates a marketing boost from the flight that will bear Stewart's name and the image of the doctor bird. "This is going to be a big marketing tool for Jamaica. It will promote Jamaica every day and in every city it goes to," he predicted.</p>
<p class="article__body">"I can't think of any better way to honour our partnership with Jamaica than to have the national bird of Jamaica on the tail of our aircraft," he added. The move is in keeping with the trend to place pictures of animals — mainly those that are endangered — on the tails of Frontier aircraft.</p>
<p class="article__body">Deputy director of tourism for the Jamaica Tourist Board in the Americas Donnie Dawson was among those who thanked Frontier for its work in supporting Jamaica's tourism sector and described the current gesture as an honour.</p>
<p class="article__body">"Frontier Airlines, with nine gateways into Jamaica, is phenomenal. Our recovery, post-COVID, is going very well and Frontier Airlines is a huge part of that because without airlift we're really nothing," he said.</p></div>
The Rose Hall Villas, the Ultimate Group Destination in Jamaica
https://caribshout.com/blog/the-rose-hall-villas-the-ultimate-group-destination-in-jamaica
2022-07-04T15:30:50.000Z
2022-07-04T15:30:50.000Z
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<div><small class="time-author">By Alexander Britell</small></div>
<div class="article">Dexton’s grilled cheese is in high demand.
<p>It’s the third day of a six-night trip at the <a href="https://www.halfmoon.com/rooms/rose-hall-villas">Rose Hall Villas</a> at Jamaica’s Half Moon resort, and everyone in this party of 8 is obsessed with the perfectly-grilled, golden-brown, crispy sandwiches. </p>
<p>Dexton is our butler for the week at Laughing Gull, a marvelous seven-bedroom villa set amid the resort’s lush gardens just a short stroll from the sand. </p>
<p>But the grilled cheeses are just a bonus. </p>
<img class="img-responsive" src="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/dinner-setting-1024x1003.jpg" alt="dinner-setting-1024x1003.jpg" />https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/dinner-setting-768x752.jpg 768w, <a href="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/dinner-setting.jpg">https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/dinner-setting.jpg</a> 1200w" alt="" width="1024" height="1003" />
Every meal is a special occasion.
<p>Dexton is there for every request big or small, from organizing a catamaran cruise around Montego Bay to putting together an early birthday celebration for a five-year-old, replete with streamers, spotlights and music. </p>
<p>And it’s Dexton, joined by Chef Tenisha and Housekeeper Maxine, that make this such a magical group experience. </p>
<p>This is the Rose Hall Villas, Jamaica’s top villa resort set at the legendary Half Moon, a mix of stunning five, six and seven bedroom villas, some on the ocean, some in lush gardens, all romantic and elegant, all named for maritime birds. </p>
<p>They’re designed in Half Moon’s timeless style, with black-and-white tile floors and grand staircases and sparkling pools. </p>
<p>The space is profound, everyone has their own room, their own wing in the resort. </p>
<img class="img-responsive" src="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/oceanfront-villa-1024x747.jpg" alt="oceanfront-villa-1024x747.jpg" />https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/oceanfront-villa-768x560.jpg 768w, <a href="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/oceanfront-villa.jpg">https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/oceanfront-villa.jpg</a> 1200w" alt="" width="1024" height="747" />
An oceanfront Rose Hall villa, right at the water’s edge.
<p>And every villa is fully staffed with a group of all-stars; a butler, a chef and a housekeeper and a pool attendant, though you quickly realize their desires to make guests happy makes those titles seem a bit narrow. </p>
<p>And they’re not the nominal butlers you get at certain resorts in the Caribbean, separated by a phone call or a challenging request. </p>
<p>The Rose Hall butlers are at your villa from sundown to the end of dinner, ensuring that every moment, every meal is special. </p>
<img class="img-responsive" src="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/robert-trent-jones-golf-1024x747.jpg" alt="robert-trent-jones-golf-1024x747.jpg" />https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/robert-trent-jones-golf-768x560.jpg 768w, <a href="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/robert-trent-jones-golf.jpg">https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/robert-trent-jones-golf.jpg</a> 1200w" alt="" width="1024" height="747" />
The 18-hole Robert Trent Jones, Sr-designed championship course has been called the “Caribbean Augusta.”
<p>For a party of eight with varying dietary needs, that means even on a Grill Night Tenisha is helping make the terrific escovitch snapper while Dexton is manning the grill; he’s also handling the array of multi-color spotlights that turn a simple Wednesday night into a full-fledged party. </p>
<p>The Chefs handle three meals a day and then some, with Tenisha serving up impressive breakfast spreads, comforting lunches and marvelous dinners to fit every guest’s need and appetite. </p>
<p>For our group, it was a mix of pescatarians and jerk lovers (and burgeoning grilled cheese aficionados), with every meal exquisitely manicured for every individual need. </p>
<p>And Maxine was a wonderful steward of the house, almost impossibly managing to do laundry for eight guests every day of the trip. </p>
<p>Kemar was there to ensure a pristine pool, find every manner of pool float, and provide regular smiles throughout the day.</p>
<img class="img-responsive" src="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/jamaica-staff-1024x747.jpg" alt="jamaica-staff-1024x747.jpg" />https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/jamaica-staff-768x560.jpg 768w, <a href="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/jamaica-staff.jpg">https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/jamaica-staff.jpg</a> 1200w" alt="" width="1024" height="747" />
From left, Kemar; Tenisha; Dexton and Maxine.
<p>And every one of these villas has a similarly structured team, whether you’re traveling families or a wedding party or a golfers’ getaway. </p>
<p>Now if these villa were set by themselves somewhere in the mountains, or on a slice of beach, they’d be spectacular. </p>
<p>But the key is they’re at Half Moon. And that’s rather significant. </p>
<img class="img-responsive" src="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/jamaica-horseback-1024x747.jpg" alt="jamaica-horseback-1024x747.jpg" />https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/jamaica-horseback-768x560.jpg 768w, <a href="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/jamaica-horseback.jpg">https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/jamaica-horseback.jpg</a> 1200w" alt="" width="1024" height="747" />
Yes, you can spend your afternoon riding horseback on the beach.
<p>That means access to all of the resort’s amenities across 400 acres, with just about everything for any group: a Robert Trent Jones, Sr-designed golf course; tennis; horseback riding (and pony rides for the kids); a shopping village; event space; squash; nightly mento concerts and the world-class Fern Tree Spa, among others. </p>
<p>It means access to the food and beverage and pools and delights at two other resorts, including the dazzling new Eclipse, Half Moon’s newest resort, and the legendary Sugar Mill restaurant. </p>
<img class="img-responsive" src="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/jamaica-visit-how-why-cover-1024x576.jpg" alt="jamaica-visit-how-why-cover-1024x576.jpg" />https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/jamaica-visit-how-why-cover-768x432.jpg 768w, <a href="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/jamaica-visit-how-why-cover.jpg">https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/jamaica-visit-how-why-cover.jpg</a> 1200w" alt="turks and caicos frontier airlines" width="1024" height="576" />
The infinity pool at Eclipse at Half Moon in Jamaica.
<p>And yes, that means you can spend all day at Eclipse’s stunning infinity pool, a place that’s exceptionally hard to leave. </p>
<img class="img-responsive" src="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/seagrape-terrace-1024x576.jpg" alt="seagrape-terrace-1024x576.jpg" />https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/seagrape-terrace-768x432.jpg 768w, <a href="https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/seagrape-terrace.jpg">https://www.caribjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/seagrape-terrace.jpg</a> 1200w" alt="" width="1024" height="576" />The Seagrape Terrace at Half Moon, with Founders Cove in the background.
<p>But at the end of the day, it’s the people. </p>
<p>It’s Dexton and Tenisha and Maxine and Kemar, exemplars of the best of Jamaican hospitality. </p>
<p>There are few villa experiences in the Caribbean like a staffed villa in Jamaica, and there’s no Jamaican villa experience like the one at Half Moon. </p>
<p>And that means a group destination that’s rather hard to beat, either in Jamaica or anywhere else in the region. </p>
<p>And if that sounds like hyperbole, it isn’t. </p>
<p>It’s really that good, delivering an experience that’s memorable, one you can savor for months and years after the fact. </p>
<p>And isn’t that why we travel in the first place? </p>
<p>For more, visit <a href="https://www.halfmoon.com/rooms/rose-hall-villas">Rose Hall Villas</a>. </p>
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Following in the footsteps of Daniel Craig, Tom Cruise and Beyonce on an epic trip around Jamaica
https://caribshout.com/blog/following-in-the-footsteps-of-daniel-craig-tom-cruise-and-beyonce
2022-04-28T17:34:55.000Z
2022-04-28T17:34:55.000Z
CaribShout
https://caribshout.com/members/CaribShout
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">The swashbuckling actor Errol Flynn - the <a id="mol-c5c2d710-c6df-11ec-b8cd-53ef62a12589" href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/george_clooney/index.html">George Clooney</a> of the thirties, forties and fifties - described Jamaica as more beautiful than any woman. Today, Jamaica still captivates. A British colony for over 300 years until 1962, our holiday coincided with the somewhat controversial Royal visit of <a id="mol-c5cdd390-c6df-11ec-b8cd-53ef62a12589" href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/prince_william/index.html">Prince William</a> and Kate.</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-a3ac802b66db9fce" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56792235-10731971-Frank_Mannion_set_off_on_an_epic_10_day_journey_around_Jamaica_A-a-449_1651062324011.jpg" alt="Frank Mannion had an epic 10-day journey around Jamaica. Above is one of the stunning stops on his tour - the Strawberry Hill Hotel in the Blue Mountains" width="962" height="696" /></div>
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<p class="imageCaption">Frank Mannion had an epic 10-day journey around Jamaica. Above is one of the stunning stops on his tour - the Strawberry Hill Hotel in the Blue Mountains </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-7612aa66a7a91022" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104093-10731971-The_word_Jamaica_comes_from_the_Taino_word_meaning_land_of_wood_-a-450_1651062324015.jpg" alt="The word Jamaica comes from the Taino word meaning 'land of wood and water', Frank reveals. He says: 'There are plenty of beautiful waterfalls there surrounded by tropical forests, [such as] the Dunn's RiverFalls (pictured), which featured in Dr No'" width="962" height="671" /></div>
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<p class="imageCaption">The word Jamaica comes from the Taino word meaning 'land of wood and water', Frank reveals. He says: 'There are plenty of beautiful waterfalls there surrounded by tropical forests, [such as] the Dunn's RiverFalls (pictured), which featured in Dr No'. After an effortless 10-hour flight we landed in Montego Bay, from which it was a short journey to our first destination, the <a class="class" href="https://www.excellenceresorts.com/montego-bay/excellence-oyster-bay/" target="_blank">Excellence Oyster Bay Resort</a> in Falmouth, the picturesque coastal capital</p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">The Excellence certainly lives up to its name by being the very best all-inclusive hotel on the island. Located on a vast private peninsula surrounded by mangrove lagoons and mesmerising turquoise waters, we felt right at home in a beautiful suite with its own plunge pool. </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-84f685e9177083f" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57071959-10731971-Frank_s_trip_around_Jamaica_began_after_an_effortless_10_hour_fl-a-451_1651062324018.jpg" alt="Frank's trip around Jamaica began after an 'effortless 10-hour flight' to Montego Bay, pictured above" width="962" height="542" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Frank's trip around Jamaica began after an 'effortless 10-hour flight' to Montego Bay, pictured above</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-d9cbd35027df5210" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104779-10731971-Frank_s_first_port_of_call_was_the_Excellence_Oyster_Bay_Resort_-a-469_1651062324048.jpg" alt="Frank's first port of call was the Excellence Oyster Bay Resort (pictured) in Falmouth, the picturesque coastal capital" width="962" height="640" /></div>
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<p class="imageCaption">Frank's first port of call was the Excellence Oyster Bay Resort (pictured) in Falmouth, the picturesque coastal capital</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-52526188881eadb8" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104775-10731971-The_Excellence_is_surrounded_by_mangrove_lagoons_and_mesmerising-a-453_1651062324026.jpg" alt="The Excellence is 'surrounded by mangrove lagoons and mesmerising turquoise waters'" width="962" height="721" />
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<p class="imageCaption">The Excellence is 'surrounded by mangrove lagoons and mesmerising turquoise waters'</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-8f3b37e8fd32d20a" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57072013-10731971-The_swashbuckling_actor_Errol_Flynn_pictured_once_described_Jama-a-465_1651062324045.jpg" alt="The swashbuckling actor Errol Flynn, pictured, once described Jamaica as more beautiful than any woman" width="470" height="389" />
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<p class="imageCaption">The swashbuckling actor Errol Flynn, pictured, once described Jamaica as more beautiful than any woman</p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">It has a first-rate choice of gourmet restaurants, with Magna a stand-out option. </p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">It boasts a spectacular view, truly glorious white-sand beaches, friendly staff and plenty of evening entertainment - plus delicious dishes such as grilled spiny lobster thermidor, grilled beef tenderloin turf and buttered zucchinis.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font"><span class="mol-style-bold">THE YAM THAT MAKES YOU RUN LIKE A LIGHTNING BOLT</span></p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">From the Excellence, we made the short trip to the pretty village of Sherwood Content in the parish of Trelawny. </p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">A peeling sign says 'home of the world's fastest man'. After all, this is the childhood home of Usain Bolt (where life is lived at a languid pace).</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">His parents still live in the tranquil village, which is surrounded by undulating hills and pretty streams, a sort of Jamaican Cotswolds. </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-6b28cb224f1bba93" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57105047-10731971-Above_a_peeling_sign_says_home_of_the_world_s_fastest_man_in_the-a-452_1651062324025.jpg" alt="Above, a peeling sign says 'home of the world's fastest man' in the village of Sherwood Content - the childhood home of Usain Bolt" width="962" height="640" /></div>
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<p class="imageCaption">Above, a peeling sign says 'home of the world's fastest man' in the village of Sherwood Content - the childhood home of Usain Bolt</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-e78a8feaeaf7a4ed" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57071999-10731971-Usain_Bolt_s_pictured_parents_still_live_in_the_tranquil_village-a-454_1651062324027.jpg" alt="Usain Bolt's (pictured) parents still live in the tranquil village of Sherwood Content, which is surrounded by undulating hills and pretty streams, Frank reveals" width="470" height="452" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Usain Bolt's (pictured) parents still live in the tranquil village of Sherwood Content, which is surrounded by undulating hills and pretty streams, Frank reveals </p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">After Usain broke the 100m world record, his father, Wellesley Bolt, emphatically attributed it to a diet of yellow yams, a starchy tuberous vegetable that Usain devoured when he was growing up. </p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">The world's oldest woman, Violet Moss Brown, also from Trelawny, was also an avid yellow yam consumer. </p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">She died aged 117 (in 2017) and had the distinction of being the world's last surviving subject of Queen Victoria.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">From there we drove to the capital of Kingston, the birthplace of reggae and where Jamaica's most famous son, Bob Marley, lived. </p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">His home, in the suburb of Trench Town, is now a <a class="class" href="https://www.bobmarleymuseum.com/" target="_blank">museum</a>. </p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">William and Kate were pictured playing the drums there and as William pointed out – 'so much musical history was made here'.</p>
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<p class="imageCaption">From Sherwood Content Frank drove to the capital, Kingston (pictured), the birthplace of reggae</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-faede376ae62efdb" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/28/09/57103649-10731971-Pictured_above_is_Bob_Marley_s_home_in_the_suburb_of_Trench_Town-m-7_1651134574708.jpg" alt="Pictured above is Bob Marley's home, in the suburb of Trench Town, which is now a museum" width="962" height="569" /></div>
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<p class="imageCaption">Pictured above is Bob Marley's home, in the suburb of Trench Town, which is now a museum</p>
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<p class="imageCaption">According to Frank, Bob Marley's (pictured on the left) impoverished childhood and rejection by his father - a white British Army man from Sussex - were a source of musical inspiration. During William and Kate's visit to Jamaica (above), the Duke of Cambridge pointed out that 'so much musical history was made here'</p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">Marley's father was a white British Army man from Sussex and his mixed-race heritage caused problems when he was growing up, often leading him to be ostracised. </p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">But his impoverished childhood and rejection by his father were a source of musical inspiration, particularly with Corner Stone', which contains the poignant lyric 'the stone that the builder refuse will always be the head cornerstone'.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font"><span class="mol-style-bold">A HOTEL FIT FOR A FUTURE KING</span></p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-8875811f8f4122d5" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57075023-10731971-Frank_paid_a_visit_to_Strawberry_Hill_Hotel_a_magical_mountain_h-a-458_1651062324030.jpg" alt="Frank paid a visit to Strawberry Hill Hotel, 'a magical mountain hotel dating back to the 18th century that's set sublimely high in the Blue Mountains (pictured)'" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Frank paid a visit to Strawberry Hill Hotel, 'a magical mountain hotel dating back to the 18th century that's set sublimely high in the Blue Mountains (pictured)'</p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">While Prince William and Kate were being feted at a banquet at the Governor General's residence, King's House, we were keen to avoid the traffic jams caused by the tight security. So we drove through the pretty suburbs of Kingston and up a scenic winding road, with the air becoming increasingly cool and refreshing the higher we climbed. </p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">We passed the colourful little village of Irish Town and finally we reached the <a class="class" href="https://www.strawberryhillhotel.com/" target="_blank">Strawberry Hill Hotel</a>, a magical mountain hotel dating back to the 18th century that's set sublimely high in the Blue Mountains. With its cluster of elegant post-plantation cottages, to-die-for infinity swimming pool and 26 acres of tropical gardens, it felt like we had entered nirvana.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">It is one of the most beautiful and dramatically situated hotels in the world, with spectacular panoramic views. We enjoyed a rum punch in the colonial-style wooden bar, then a delightful dinner served on the veranda by the friendliest staff. Below, the lights of Kingston twinkled in the distance with the ocean beyond. The hotel is perched so perfectly that there is no cacophonous soundscape, no din of hooting cars - just mellifluous tropical birdsong. With this peaceful backdrop, it is no surprise to discover that Bob Marley came here to convalesce after the attempt on his life in 1976.</p>
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<p class="imageCaption">According to Frank, each 'exquisite' cottage at Strawberry Hill Hotel nestles within the contours of the mountain. 'We wished our stay could go on for infinity,' he says </p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">Each exquisite cottage at the hotel nestles within the contours of the mountain and has a terrace perched to capture its own spectacular view.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">The next morning, after a delightful early breakfast of akee and saltfish (Jamaica's tasty national dish that tastes like scrambled eggs), I could see why Bob Marley was inspired to write: 'Rise up this mornin', smile with the risin' sun, three little birds pitch by my doorstep, singin' sweet songs of melodies pure and true.' </p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">We wished our stay could go on for infinity, so it was with a tremendous sense of melancholy that we bade adieu to this hilltop paradise.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font"><span class="mol-style-bold">A HELICOPTER TRIP TO THE BLUE LAGOON</span></p>
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<p class="imageCaption">Frank enjoyed a ride with Jamaica's leading aviation company, Captain's Aviation. Above is one of the company's helicopters </p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">Our next destination was in the parish of Portland, so named after the Duke of Portland, who was Governor General there for four years in the early 18th century.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Instead of a bumpy three-hour car journey, Jamaica's leading aviation company, <a class="class" href="https://www.captainsaviation.com/" target="_blank">Captain's Aviation</a>, teamed up with the <a class="class" href="https://www.geejamhotel.com/" target="_blank">Geejam Hotel </a>to take us by helicopter, reducing the journey to just 18 minutes. Captain's Aviation is run by the charismatic Romario Burrell, who was so keen to become an aviator that he learned how to fly before he was legally allowed to drive.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">In fact, he was so young he had to be driven to his flying lessons by his father, Captain Horace, who served as President of Jamaica's Football Association, hence Romario's rather Brazilian sounding Christian name! Victor, our ex-Jamaican Defence Forces pilot, whisks us away on a bespoke VIP trip over the Blue Mountains where we see coconut groves, and coffee plantations, reputedly the world's best and known as the 'Champagne of coffee'.</p>
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<p class="imageCaption">Captain's Aviation is run by the charismatic Romario Burrell, who was so keen to become an aviator that he learned how to fly before he was legally allowed to drive, Frank reveals. Above is the view of the Rockhouse Hotel in Negril from one of the company's helicopters </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-cd07379d96c8c05c" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56795387-10731971-Above_is_a_view_of_Seven_Mile_Beach_from_the_helicopter_cockpit_-a-463_1651062324038.jpg" alt="Above is a view of Seven Mile Beach from the helicopter cockpit - though Frank flew a different route" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Above is a view of Seven Mile Beach from the helicopter cockpit - though Frank flew a different route </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-9c0b5c0880ccb106" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104839-10731971-Singer_Shawn_Mendes_pictured_above_previously_enjoyed_a_helicopt-a-464_1651062324040.jpg" alt="Singer Shawn Mendes, pictured above, previously enjoyed a helicopter tour with Captain's Aviation" width="470" height="447" />
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-b77a31e6c9cbe35" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56793533-10731971-Shawn_Mendes_loved_his_trip_with_Captain_s_Aviation_so_much_that-a-467_1651062324046.jpg" alt="Shawn Mendes loved his trip with Captain's Aviation so much that he shared a post from the cockpit with his 67.5million Instagram followers (above)" width="470" height="447" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Singer Shawn Mendes, pictured, previously enjoyed a helicopter tour with Captain's Aviation. He loved the trip so much that he shared a post from the cockpit with his 67.5million Instagram followers (pictured on the right) </p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">Minutes later we were circling Port Antonio, the seaside capital of the parish of Portland and spotted Navy Island, which Errol Flynn once acquired in a drunken poker match.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">The pilot hovered over Alligator Head where the fabulously rich Baroness von Thyssen-Bornemisza has created a sanctuary. Fortunately, not a sanctuary for alligators (although from afar the peninsula does look uncannily like the head of an alligator), rather for sea turtles and parrotfish. </p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">We then circled Frenchman's Cove, once the playground of Jamaica's first all-inclusive resort where the Queen, The Beatles, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton came to stay.</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-a17ea849e73798de" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57103643-10731971-From_the_sky_Frank_spotted_Navy_Island_pictured_which_Errol_Flyn-a-466_1651062324046.jpg" alt="From the sky, Frank spotted Navy Island, pictured, which Errol Flynn once acquired in a drunken poker match" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">From the sky, Frank spotted Navy Island, pictured, which Errol Flynn once acquired in a drunken poker match</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-366e7ad520681b34" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57106611-10731971-Frank_s_helicopter_circled_Frenchman_s_Cove_pictured_once_the_pl-a-424_1651062323965.jpg" alt="Frank's helicopter circled Frenchman's Cove, pictured, once the playground of Jamaica's first all-inclusive resort, where the Queen and The Beatles once stayed" width="962" height="542" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Frank's helicopter circled Frenchman's Cove, pictured, once the playground of Jamaica's first all-inclusive resort, where the Queen and The Beatles once stayed</p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">Next to it is the Blue Lagoon, made famous by the movie that introduced Brooke Shields, and still just as mesmerising from the air.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">We also flew over Dragon Bay, where Tom Cruise showed off his bartender skills in his beachside bar (now called Cruise Bar) in the 1980s classic Cocktail.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">It is a truly breathtaking helicopter tour.</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-cc2869d2cbaefca0" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57071971-10731971-Frank_flew_over_Dragon_Bay_where_Tom_Cruise_showed_off_his_barte-a-468_1651062324047.jpg" alt="Frank flew over Dragon Bay, where Tom Cruise showed off his bartender skills in his beachside bar in the 1980s classic Cocktail (pictured)" width="962" height="633" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Frank flew over Dragon Bay, where Tom Cruise showed off his bartender skills in his beachside bar in the 1980s classic Cocktail (pictured) </p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">Shawn Mendes loved the trip so much that he shared a post from the cockpit with his 67.5million followers (<a class="class" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BfWpvWzAD7m/" target="_blank">see photo</a>).</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">We alighted at Geejam Hotel, founded by two charming British record label bosses, the gregarious Jon Baker and the loquacious Steve Beaver. They fell in love with the island when they were on A&R missions to unearth the next generation of reggae talent.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Until now, Geejam has been the music industry's most closely guarded secret.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font"><span class="mol-style-bold">GEE-JAMMING WITH THE ROLLING STONES</span></p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-d2ef7b39a9eb6416" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56793541-10731971-Above_is_the_Mento_Cabin_at_Geejam_Hotel_founded_by_two_charming-a-425_1651062323967.jpg" alt="Above is the Mento Cabin at Geejam Hotel, founded by two charming British record label bosses. Frank describes the property as 'the music industry's most closely guarded secret'" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Above is the Mento Cabin at Geejam Hotel, founded by two charming British record label bosses. Frank describes the property as 'the music industry's most closely guarded secret'</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-36486deeb7f0638f" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56793529-10731971-Geejam_boasts_stylish_suites_with_state_of_the_art_technology_Pi-a-470_1651062324048.jpg" alt="Geejam boasts 'stylish suites with state-of-the-art technology'. Pictured is the bedroom in the hotel's Ska Cabin" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Geejam boasts 'stylish suites with state-of-the-art technology'. Pictured is the bedroom in the hotel's Ska Cabin </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-a68f27844faf616c" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56793523-10731971-Geejam_s_panoramic_sea_view_is_the_ultimate_stimulant_to_unlock_-a-426_1651062323968.jpg" alt="Geejam's panoramic sea view is 'the ultimate stimulant to unlock the creative deities'. Above is the hot tub on the deck of the hotel's Ska Cabin" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Geejam's panoramic sea view is 'the ultimate stimulant to unlock the creative deities'. Above is the hot tub on the deck of the hotel's Ska Cabin </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-a064ecdf8e436288" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57071995-10731971-According_to_Frank_Harry_Styles_pictured_stayed_at_Geejam_to_get-a-427_1651062323968.jpg" alt="According to Frank, Harry Styles, pictured, stayed at Geejam to 'get away from it all and record some music'" width="470" height="579" />
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<p class="imageCaption">According to Frank, Harry Styles, pictured, stayed at Geejam to 'get away from it all and record some music'</p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">Perched on top of the hotel are two stunning villas – Panorama and Cocosan - that have hosted the creme de la creme of musical talent. It is the ultimate secret hideaway and its panoramic sea view is the ultimate stimulant to unlock the creative deities.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">It certainly worked for The Rolling Stones, who had just finished recording their latest top-secret album here, and for Idris Elba, who had been jamming in the recording studio here just before our visit. No doubt he loved the villa's Steinway piano painted in Ferrari red – now that's rock 'n' roll.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">The hotel owners are far too discreet to name-drop, but The Stones were following in a long line of Grammy Award-winning artists from Drake, Amy Winehouse, Justin Bieber and even Harry Styles, who came to get away from it all and record some music inspired by the fusion of the glorious surroundings, the lack of distractions and the absence of paparazzi.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">With a beautiful infinity pool, a lively bar, friendly staff and stylish suites with state-of-the-art technology, the hotel is the perfect combination of what the owners call 'off the grid but totally dialled-in' living.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font"><span class="mol-style-bold">THE TOWN WHERE JAMES BOND IS THE CATCH OF THE DAY</span></p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-ea9ccfd2f960b7fa" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57071983-10731971-The_opening_scenes_of_No_Time_To_Die_pictured_Daniel_Craig_s_fin-a-428_1651062323969.jpg" alt="The opening scenes of No Time To Die (pictured) - Daniel Craig's final outing as James Bond - were filmed in Port Antonio" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">The opening scenes of No Time To Die (pictured) - Daniel Craig's final outing as James Bond - were filmed in Port Antonio </p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">Our biggest discovery was to learn that the opening scenes of No Time To Die were filmed in Port Antonio.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">This is where James Bond, having retired from active service, comes to lie low and do some fishing, emerging from the azure waters with his catch of the day, all shot in the bay below the Geejam.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Port Antonio also doubled as Cuba in the film providing much-needed employment to the local residents.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Daniel Craig loved it so much, he ended up staying in the Geejam - in the Cocosan villa - for six weeks while the 007 crew and producers took over the other effortlessly chic 19 rooms and villa.</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-c4f251eeab61916c" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56793537-10731971-While_filming_No_Time_To_Die_Daniel_Craig_ended_up_staying_in_th-a-471_1651062324049.jpg" alt="While filming No Time To Die, Daniel Craig ended up staying in the Geejam - in the Cocosan villa, pictured - for six weeks" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">While filming No Time To Die, Daniel Craig ended up staying in the Geejam - in the Cocosan villa, pictured - for six weeks</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-e5df71d47156e1d3" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56793535-10731971-The_dining_space_in_the_Cocosan_villa_at_Geejam_Along_with_the_P-a-429_1651062323970.jpg" alt="The dining space in the Cocosan villa at Geejam. Along with the Panorama villa, it's one of two stunning villas perched on top of the hotel that has hosted the 'creme de la creme of musical talent'" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">The dining space in the Cocosan villa at Geejam. Along with the Panorama villa, it's one of two stunning villas perched on top of the hotel that has hosted the 'creme de la creme of musical talent'</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-d737f55e65094ac9" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104835-10731971-Daniel_Craig_and_the_007_crew_were_regulars_at_the_jerk_bar_Pigg-a-430_1651062323971.jpg" alt="Daniel Craig and the 007 crew were regulars at jerk bar Piggy's in Port Antonio. When the bar was destroyed in a fire, according to the genial owner, the Bond production crew wired $35,000 (£26,000) to get it re-opened" width="470" height="550" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Daniel Craig and the 007 crew were regulars at jerk bar Piggy's in Port Antonio. When the bar was destroyed in a fire, according to the genial owner, the Bond production crew wired $35,000 (£26,000) to get it re-opened</p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">Remarkably, Port Antonio seems to make no effort to entice tourists with this important Bond connection – there are no signs or tours that would highlight the unforgettable local locations used in the film. Daniel Craig and the crew were regulars at the local jerk bar, Piggy's in Port Antonio. Weeks after they finished filming, Piggy's was destroyed in a fire and, according to the genial owner, Eustac "Piggy" Lindsay, once word got back to Daniel Craig, the Bond production wired $35,000 (£26,000) to get it re-opened, saving the jobs of the 15 staff that worked there.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">The Geejam organised a rafting trip on the Rio Grande.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">The bamboo rafts had originally been used to transport bananas for export, but it was Errol Flynn who pioneered the use of leisure rafting in the 1950s.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Our captain was Michael, who has been piloting rafts down the eight-mile-long river for almost 30 years.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">His passengers, on his bamboo love seat, have included the likes of Sean Connery and Peter O'Toole, who settled into the two-hour journey with a very large ice-box of beer and whose raucous company Michael very much enjoyed.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">It is a beautiful way to enjoy Jamaica's natural unspoilt beauty and very safe with no rapids.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font"><span class="mol-style-bold">THE RIVER CAFÉ LOVED BY PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN AND BEYONCE</span></p>
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<p class="imageCaption">Frank headed on a rafting trip on the Rio Grande, pictured. 'It is a beautiful way to enjoy Jamaica's natural unspoilt beauty and very safe with no rapids,' he says </p>
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<p class="imageCaption">Frank stopped along the Rio Grande to visit the popular Belinda's riverside inn. He reveals that Beyonce, pictured on the left, once flew in by helicopter to sample Belinda's culinary delights. Johnny Depp loved Belinda's so much he arranged for the Pirates of the Caribbean wrap party to be held there. On the right is Depp playing Captain Jack Sparrow in 2003's Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl</p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">About halfway downriver, we jumped off to swim at the local beauty spot, known as Lover's Lane, and make a stop at <a class="class" href="https://www.instagram.com/belindasriversiderestaurant876/?hl=en" target="_blank">Belinda's</a>, a simple old-fashioned riverside inn with long benches that is only accessible by river.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Belinda, and her mother before her, have been setting up their fires and cooking dishes here daily for decades. Her chicken stew, rice and beans, curry goat, bammy and plantain, are simply delicious.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Beyonce even flew in by helicopter to sample Belinda's culinary delights.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Appetite sated, she continued the rest of her journey by bamboo raft down to where the river meets the Caribbean Sea at Port Antonio. Johnny Depp loved Belinda's so much he arranged for the Pirates of the Caribbean wrap party to be held there.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">The word Jamaica comes from the Taino word meaning 'land of wood and water'. There are plenty of beautiful waterfalls there surrounded by tropical forests, from the Dunn's RiverFalls, which featured in Dr No, to Reach Falls, which featured in Cocktail, not to mention the underrated Nanny Falls and YS Falls. A trip to any of these is a life-affirming experience.</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-43ad8382b464ca59" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104091-10731971-Above_are_Reach_Falls_which_feature_in_the_film_Cocktail_Visit_J-a-434_1651062323975.jpg" alt="Above are Reach Falls, which feature in the film Cocktail. Visit Jamaica's waterfalls and you'll enjoy a 'life-affirming experience', according to Frank" width="962" height="639" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Above are Reach Falls, which feature in the film Cocktail. Visit Jamaica's waterfalls and you'll enjoy a 'life-affirming experience', according to Frank </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-772268ab4ab791b8" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104075-10731971-A_picture_of_the_coast_by_Goldeneye_Ian_Fleming_spent_two_months-a-435_1651062323976.jpg" alt="A picture of the coast by Goldeneye. Ian Fleming spent two months each winter there, writing 14 novels, three of which, including Dr No, are set in Jamaica" width="962" height="721" />
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<p class="imageCaption">A picture of the coast by Goldeneye. Ian Fleming spent two months each winter there, writing 14 novels, three of which, including Dr No, are set in Jamaica</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-5130a1e2c56ebde4" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104083-10731971-Legendary_record_producer_Chris_Blackwell_pictured_developed_aut-a-436_1651062323976.jpg" alt="Legendary record producer Chris Blackwell, pictured, developed author Ian Fleming's Goldeneye estate into a five-star hotel and resort" width="470" height="447" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Legendary record producer Chris Blackwell, pictured, developed author Ian Fleming's Goldeneye estate into a five-star hotel and resort</p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">From Port Antonio, it was a two-hour drive to the magnificent <a class="class" href="https://www.goldeneye.com/" target="_blank">Goldeneye Hotel</a>, just outside Ocho Rios (call it 'Ochi' if you want to blend in with the locals).</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">It has an illustrious history. It is where Ian Fleming wrote all the James Bond novels.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">He first came to Jamaica in 1942 as a naval intelligence officer (on an operation to find German U-boats in the Caribbean) vowing to return as soon as he could.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">The year after the war, he bought a small tract of land that was once a donkey racetrack and built a bungalow that he named Goldeneye. Fleming spent two months each winter there, writing 14 novels, three of which, including Dr No, are set in Jamaica. Noel Coward lived further up the road at his hilltop getaway, Firefly. In fact, Coward is buried at Firefly in a plot with stunning views overlooking Port Maria and his house is now a museum open to visitors, and well worth a visit.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Fleming's muse was the heiress Blanche Blackwell, who was rumoured to be the inspiration for Pussy Galore.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">When Dr No was filming nearby, at Fleming's recommendation, Blanche's son, Chris Blackwell, was hired as a location scout and worked on the famous scene where a bikini-clad Ursula Andress emerges from the sea singing 'Under the Mango Tree'.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">It was filmed at the nearby Laughing Waters beach, a beautiful spot that is now only accessible by boat (visits can be arranged by the hotel).</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Chris went on to have a legendary music career, founding Island Records and introducing reggae and Bob Marley, Cat Stevens and U2, among others, to the world.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">After Ian Fleming died, Bob Marley bought the house sight unseen, but found it too posh and sold it the following year to his record industry boss, Chris Blackwell, who developed the 42 acres of land into a five-star hotel and resort. It is now one of the most breathtakingly beautiful hotels in the world. </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-53541d13cf633bb3" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104089-10731971-There_are_photos_of_some_of_Chris_Blackwell_s_incredible_line_up-a-437_1651062323978.jpg" alt="There are photos of some of Chris Blackwell's incredible line-up of musical collaborators on the walls of Bizot Bar, pictured" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">There are photos of some of Chris Blackwell's incredible line-up of musical collaborators on the walls of Bizot Bar, pictured</p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">Apart from some old photos of Fleming and some Bond books in the lobby, it plays down its 007 connections.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Even Blackwell's musical success is low key, apart from at the <a class="class" href="https://www.goldeneye.com/" target="_blank">Bizot Bar</a>, where there are photos of some of his incredible line-up of musical collaborators.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">It is at the Bizot Bar that we see a barefoot Chris Blackwell playing backgammon against the backdrop of a beautiful shimmering sunset. Now a very youthful 85 years of age, his memoirs will be published in June.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">The restaurant is in an unrivalled position on the island and we enjoy mouth-watering dishes such as escovitch lionfish with fried bammy and braised oxtail stew.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font"><span class="mol-style-bold">THE VILLA THAT TOOK IAN FLEMING AND STING'S BREATH AWAY</span></p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-cbe8e58ba620cb06" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104071-10731971-_Goldeneye_is_a_collection_of_49_truly_gorgeous_villas_cottages_-a-438_1651062323980.jpg" alt="'Goldeneye is a collection of 49 truly gorgeous villas, cottages, and huts scattered throughout the tropical gardens,' writes Frank. Above is the resort's Lagoon Cottage" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">'Goldeneye is a collection of 49 truly gorgeous villas, cottages, and huts scattered throughout the tropical gardens,' writes Frank. Above is the resort's Lagoon Cottage </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-d89d4c312138beb6" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104081-10731971-Goldeneye_has_long_been_a_source_of_musical_inspiration_Sting_wr-a-439_1651062323981.jpg" alt="Goldeneye has long been a source of musical inspiration – Sting wrote the hit 'Every Breath You Take' when he was a guest of the resort" width="470" height="591" />
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-9584d3f61afefb88" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104085-10731971-All_the_stunning_Beach_Huts_at_Goldeneye_such_as_the_one_picture-a-440_1651062323982.jpg" alt="All the stunning Beach Huts at Goldeneye, such as the one pictured above, were created to match the style of Chris Blackwell's own" width="470" height="591" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Goldeneye has long been a source of musical inspiration – Sting wrote the hit 'Every Breath You Take' when he was a guest of the resort. All the stunning Beach Huts at Goldeneye, such as the one pictured on the right, were created to match the style of Chris Blackwell's own </p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">Goldeneye has long been a source of musical inspiration – while guests Sting wrote the hit 'Every Breath You Take' and Bono wrote the title track to Goldeneye (sung by Tina Turner).</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">On a wall of the Fleming villa is a framed hand-written thank you note from Sting.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">It is still possible to stay in the original Fleming Villa, which proudly houses the simple desk where Fleming wrote all the Bond thrillers 'with the jalousies closed around me so that I would not be distracted by the birds and the flowers and the sunshine outside'.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">He added: 'Would these books have been born if I had not been living in the gorgeous vacuum of a Jamaican holiday?'</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-97c3d1d4ae22b5c1" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104077-10731971-One_of_the_delights_of_Goldeneye_is_that_there_are_many_secluded-a-441_1651062323983.jpg" alt="One of the delights of Goldeneye is that there are many secluded spots and nooks and crannies to discover and where you feel like you have it all to yourself, Frank reveals" width="962" height="719" />
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<p class="imageCaption">One of the delights of Goldeneye is that there are many secluded spots and nooks and crannies to discover and where you feel like you have it all to yourself, Frank reveals </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-3824ae02d25b9a37" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104547-10731971-A_bedroom_in_one_of_Goldeneye_s_Beach_Huts_Goldeneye_truly_is_on-a-442_1651062323984.jpg" alt="A bedroom in one of Goldeneye's Beach Huts. 'Goldeneye truly is one of the most heavenly places on earth,' Frank admits" width="962" height="621" />
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<p class="imageCaption">A bedroom in one of Goldeneye's Beach Huts. 'Goldeneye truly is one of the most heavenly places on earth,' Frank admits </p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">Goldeneye is a collection of 49 truly gorgeous villas, cottages, and huts scattered throughout the tropical gardens, along a picturesque and tranquil lagoon, and along the beaches and Snorkeller's Cove.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">All the stunning Beach Huts were created to match the style of Chris Blackwell's own.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">One of the delights of Goldeneye is that there are many secluded spots and nooks and crannies to discover and where you feel like you have it all to yourself – have a sundowner at the delightful Shabeen bar, or check out the tropical sea-life in Snorkeller's Cove.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">As we walked back from dinner to our beach hut, we passed some mango, ackee and coconut trees planted by the likes of past guests Michael Caine, Pierce Brosnan, Quincy Jones and Kate Moss. Goldeneye truly is one of the most heavenly places on earth.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font"><span class="mol-style-bold">SWEPT AWAY ON SEVEN MILE BEACH</span></p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-e232dd22757b657b" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56796113-10731971-Negril_s_world_famous_Seven_Mile_Beach_above_is_even_more_beauti-a-443_1651062323985.jpg" alt="Negril's world-famous Seven Mile Beach (above) is 'even more beautiful than it looks in photos', according to Frank" width="962" height="504" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Negril's world-famous Seven Mile Beach (above) is 'even more beautiful than it looks in photos', according to Frank </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-fb66b4bf95b650ae" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56796109-10731971-Couples_Swept_Away_pictured_is_the_perfect_all_inclusive_resort_-a-444_1651062323985.jpg" alt="Couples Swept Away, pictured, is the perfect all-inclusive resort for active guests, Frank reveals" width="470" height="650" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Couples Swept Away, pictured, is the perfect all-inclusive resort for active guests, Frank reveals </p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">It was time to move to the west side of the island to Negril with its world-famous Seven Mile Beach - even more beautiful than it looks in photos.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Our next home was <a class="class" href="https://couplesresorts.co.uk/" target="_blank">Couples Swept Away</a>, the perfect all-inclusive resort for active guests.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">It has the island's largest fitness centre and a beautiful old-school swimming pool with mature palm trees somewhat reminiscent of Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles. It has the most stunning beach with overhanging palms providing the idyllic way to wind down from the stresses and to adapt to the slower pace of 'island time'.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">It is a fun place with great restaurants (Feathers and Lemon Grass are highly recommended), a lively beach scene and one of the best spots on the island for a sundowner.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">The fun-loving barmen will insist on creating an exotic looking three-tiered alcoholic shot in the green, yellow and black colours of the Jamaican flag.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Owned by the Issa family, there are plenty of authentic local touches with artwork by Jamaican artists on the walls including one colourful, amusing one at the entrance of the Patois restaurant of a policeman happily watering a marijuana plant (marijuana was legalised in Jamaica in 2015, a policy that would have met with Bob Marley's approval since he famously sang 'legalise it, don't criticise it').</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-261ebfa82e8f57d4" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56796127-10731971-_It_is_a_fun_place_with_great_restaurants_Frank_says_of_Couples_-a-445_1651062323986.jpg" alt="'It is a fun place with great restaurants,' Frank says of Couples Swept Away. He recommends dining at Feathers restaurant (pictured)" width="962" height="643" />
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<p class="imageCaption">'It is a fun place with great restaurants,' Frank says of Couples Swept Away. He recommends dining at Feathers restaurant (pictured) </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-5cbab72277ed279" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56796125-10731971-According_to_Frank_Couples_Swept_Away_boasts_plenty_of_authentic-a-446_1651062323987.jpg" alt="According to Frank, Couples Swept Away boasts plenty of 'authentic local touches with artwork by Jamaican artists on the walls'" width="962" height="642" />
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<p class="imageCaption">According to Frank, Couples Swept Away boasts plenty of 'authentic local touches with artwork by Jamaican artists on the walls'</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-d2f9bb060440f66" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/56796111-10731971-Couples_Swept_Away_has_a_beautiful_old_school_swimming_pool_with-a-447_1651062323989.jpg" alt="Couples Swept Away has a beautiful old-school swimming pool with mature palm trees that's 'somewhat reminiscent of Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles'" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Couples Swept Away has a beautiful old-school swimming pool with mature palm trees that's 'somewhat reminiscent of Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles'</p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">To avoid the friendly ganja sellers on Seven Mile Beach, just don't sit in the front row on the beach-loungers!</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">We had lunch at the tree-shaded terrace of the Zest restaurant at the nearby <a class="class" href="https://www.thecliffjamaica.com/" target="_blank">Cliff Hotel</a>, situated on a glorious five-acre bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea on the western-most point of Jamaica. This stunning five-star hotel has 33 spacious oceanfront suites and villas (with nice touches such as hammocks on the terrace) and a spectacular pool with an Instagrammble wet-bar.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">We watched some guests cliff-jumping off the rocks, while others enjoyed a natural saltwater pool – the setting and design are truly divine.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Chef Cindy Hutson brings her 'cuisine of the sun' philosophy to Zest and what is known colloquially as 'rasta pasta' transforming traditional Italian fare into a mouth-watering jerked chicken penne pasta.</p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-e0e3e3d2771b526b" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104553-10731971-Cliff_Hotel_pictured_is_situated_on_a_glorious_five_acre_bluff_o-a-448_1651062323989.jpg" alt="Cliff Hotel, pictured, is situated on a 'glorious' five-acre bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea on the western-most point of Jamaica" width="962" height="560" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Cliff Hotel, pictured, is situated on a 'glorious' five-acre bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea on the western-most point of Jamaica </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-98c27dde5ef44717" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104557-10731971-_The_setting_and_design_are_truly_divine_Frank_says_of_the_Cliff-a-472_1651062324051.jpg" alt="'The setting and design are truly divine,' Frank says of the Cliff Hotel, after visiting for a spot of lunch. Above is one of the hotel's suites" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">'The setting and design are truly divine,' Frank says of the Cliff Hotel, after visiting for a spot of lunch. Above is one of the hotel's suites </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-4b44082198a97910" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104551-10731971-Frank_s_girlfriend_visited_the_Cliff_Hotel_s_KiYara_spa_pictured-a-473_1651062324051.jpg" alt="Frank's girlfriend visited the Cliff Hotel's KiYara spa, pictured, set in a secluded clifftop sanctuary of natural stone and bamboo" width="962" height="640" />
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<p class="imageCaption">Frank's girlfriend visited the Cliff Hotel's KiYara spa, pictured, set in a secluded clifftop sanctuary of natural stone and bamboo </p>
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<div class="image-wrap fff-pic"><img id="i-4158722cbe6b2899" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" src="https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/27/13/57104549-10731971-A_lobster_dish_at_the_Cliff_Hotel_Chef_Cindy_Hutson_brings_her_c-a-474_1651062324052.jpg" alt="A lobster dish at the Cliff Hotel. Chef Cindy Hutson brings her 'cuisine of the sun' philosophy to the hotel's Zest restaurant, Frank reveals" width="470" height="707" />
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<p class="imageCaption">A lobster dish at the Cliff Hotel. Chef Cindy Hutson brings her 'cuisine of the sun' philosophy to the hotel's Zest restaurant, Frank reveals</p>
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<p class="mol-para-with-font">A local staple such as breadfruit becomes a tropical taco wrapped around a locally caught mahi-mahi fish dusted with coriander and toasted cumin.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">My girlfriend headed for the hotel's KiYara spa, set in a secluded clifftop sanctuary of natural stone and bamboo. The name honours the Tainos, the first inhabitants of Jamaica with KiYara meaning' sacred place of the earth's spirit'.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">It is an appropriate name for the beautiful ocean-facing treatment room.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Using indigenous Jamaican herbs and botanicals, the highly skilled therapist Carolyn Jobson gave my girlfriend the best body treatment she has ever had.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Meanwhile, I sat on the terrace overlooking the crashing waves with a rum punch in my hand and imagined Christopher Columbus landing here in 1494 - the first European to set foot on Jamaica. How apt his description of the island: 'The fairest isle mine eyes ever beheld.'</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">Over the 10-day holiday, we saw spectacular river falls, went bamboo rafting, drank the finest Blue Mountain coffee and followed in the footsteps of James Bond with swims in turquoise waters, and all the while, we felt safe and welcomed by the wonderful Jamaican people.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">The words of Bob Marley seem apt to placate any fears that visitors might have: 'Don't worry about a thing, 'cause every little thing gonna be all right'.</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font"><span class="mol-style-italic">Frank Mannion is a film director and his highly anticipated film Quintessentially British with Ian McKellen will be in cinemas on August 12, 2022</span></p>
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How Celebrity Dermatologist Rosemarie Ingleton Spends a Long Weekend in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
https://caribshout.com/blog/how-celebrity-dermatologist-rosemarie-ingleton-spends-a-long-week
2022-02-24T16:37:48.000Z
2022-02-24T16:37:48.000Z
CaribShout
https://caribshout.com/members/CaribShout
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<span class="BaseWrap-sc-TURhJ BaseText-fFzBQt CaptionText-cOFJqa eTiIvU fZKMXL hTa-dbB caption__text">The group in Ocho Rios. From left to right: Chris Chambers, principal of The Chamber Group PR; dermatologist Rosemarie Ingleton; fashion designer Keneea Linton-George; Novia McDonald-Whyte O.D., senior associate editor, Jamaica Observer.</span><span class="BaseWrap-sc-TURhJ BaseText-fFzBQt CaptionCredit-cTdqxu eTiIvU nZFKf iHbDSe caption__credit">Photo: Courtesy of Rosemarie Ingleton</span></div>
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<p>Dermatologist <a href="https://www.vogue.com/article/dermatologist-rosemarie-ingleton-new-skin-care-line">Rosemarie Ingleton, MD</a>, lives in Brooklyn, but grew up in St. Andrew, Jamaica, and tries to make an annual trip “back home.” This time, the derm to the stars (Ashley Graham, Adriana Lima, Chrissy Teigen) stayed at the historic <a class="external-link" href="https://www.expedia.com/Hotel-Search?selected=794530&HotelID=794530&langid=1033&semcid=US.UB.GOOGLE.PT-c-EN.HOTEL&semdtl=a1392604508.b124186070228.r10416ae90bbd80389107a5a99880217bac9ba033188c386d1fb6233bb4a187f52.g1aud-1210701017419:kwd-4283470747.i1.d194109417908.e1c.j19003758.k1.f1.n1.l1g.h1e.m1&gclid=CjwKCAjwi9-HBhACEiwAPzUhHF-qH3wS6ru5V5mLjIwx95IUH1HOPjlEjWvDdXSTjI9xBCcgrSo7BRoCPDQQAvD_BwE" target="_blank">Jamaica Inn</a> in Ocho Rios, on the North coast. It’s an elegant but deeply relaxed 48-room hotel run by members of the Morrow family since it was established in 1958. Over the years, it has hosted luminaries such as Katharine Hepburn and Noel Coward. Marylin Monroe and Arthur Miller honeymooned here, while Winston Churchill favored Suite 21, where he liked to paint on the terrace. Ingleton, who plays reggae in the waiting room of her Manhattan dermatology office, immediately immerses herself in island life, tipping back rum cocktails and lounging on the beach (“with sun protection, of course”). Here she shares her favorite spots—and highly specific recommendations on what to eat.</p>
<p>“Jamaica has a <a class="external-link" href="https://jis.gov.jm/covid-19-measures-adjusted/" target="_blank">curfew</a>. Now is not the time to go running around the island, so choosing an amazing hotel is important, since that’s where you’ll spend most of your trip. The Inn is its own little world, where you can just rest and read and swim and have cocktails and dress up for dinner. Everything I need is there. It’s special and intimate—I took my mother there for her birthday—and it’s family owned, so it has this warm, homey vibe. Many of the staff members have been there for decades, and they have a resident dog, a black Lab named Shadow. People play croquet on the lawn, with instruction from Carter, the resident expert, and they serve afternoon tea at 4, which you can have on the beach. It’s not for the party seeker who needs to be entertained, and, you know, have limbo lessons and reggae dance lessons. The vibe is more ‘leave me alone and let me be.’</p>
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<p>The view from cottage 5 at Jamaica Inn.</p>
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<div>Kids are allowed but only age ten and up. I don’t like huge all-inclusive hotels with tons of people, and kids running around screaming and needing a giant slide in the pool. I love kids—I have two grown kids of my own—but when I’m on vacation, I like to relax. I like properties that are peaceful and low key. I love <a class="external-link" href="https://www.mrandmrssmith.com/luxury-hotels/goldeneye" target="_blank">Goldeneye</a>, too, which is further up the coast and another little secret paradise. The common thread for me is private, luxe, and a clearly Jamaican vibe. I don’t want to sit on a resort that could be anywhere and think, ‘Wait, where am I, again? Am I in Florida?’ I want to know I’m in Jamaica.</div>
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<p>You have to <a class="external-link" href="https://www.visitjamaica.com/plan-your-trip/good-to-know/entry-requirements/" target="_blank">apply for permission</a> to visit the island and get a documented COVID test 72 hours before departure. You also need to get another COVID test at least 72 hours before re-entry into the U.S. Since I was only there for a long weekend, on-property testing was arranged by the concierge at the Jamaica Inn right when I arrived, so it would be ready when it was time to leave. On the way from the airport, my driver from the Inn gave me my first ice-cold Red Stripe, and he's playing Bob Marley’s “One Love” on the radio as he’s whisking me off to the hotel. That’s how we welcome Jamaican nationals when they come back home. So it was like a whole vibe, and it starts from the airport.</p>
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<div>I get to my hotel, where they greet you with a nice Planter’s Punch rum cocktail. I literally went straight to the room, changed into my swimsuit and met my friends down on the beach, because they had been there for a few days before I arrived. All rooms have views of the water, and they’re pretty and calming, with four-poster beds and white linens and white curtains. My bedroom window looked out onto the blue water with the fish swimming below. For lunch, I ordered my favorite thing to eat in Jamaica: a whole red snapper with fried bammy triangles, which is made of cassava that’s pressed, coconut water from a fresh coconut with a straw, and another Red Stripe. If you’re at a resort, you have to specifically request whole fish, which they normally don’t do. But you can also go to any fisherman’s shack by the seaside in Ocho Rios (a short drive and the concierge can direct you) where they come in with fresh fish every day, and they’ll cook it for you. I’m the girl who goes to a seaside shack and picks out my food and waits with a Red Stripe for it to be grilled while talking crap with my friends and locals.</div>
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<p>A whole red snapper with fried bammy triangles.</p>
<span class="BaseWrap-sc-TURhJ BaseText-fFzBQt CaptionText-cOFJqa eTiIvU fZKMXL hTa-dbB caption__text"> </span><span class="BaseWrap-sc-TURhJ BaseText-fFzBQt CaptionCredit-cTdqxu eTiIvU nZFKf iHbDSe caption__credit">Photo: Courtesy of Rosemarie Ingleton</span></div>
<p>The beach at the Inn is ultra-private and just a secret paradise. You’re a part of the Caribbean Sea but you’re in this crystal-clear alcove, and it’s nice and calm for swimming and snorkeling. The Inn is more about paddle boarding than jet-skis, and the water is as blue and clear as it could possibly be. On the beach, there are palm trees, thatched umbrellas, blue beach chairs, and an ample expanse of nice, soft sand. There were not a lot of people there, maybe three other lounge chairs with occupants. But even when the place is filled, it never feels crowded—like, there’s no rush to grab a spot on the beach. On the property, there are Hawksbill turtle nests which hatch in the sand every summer. I didn’t see any, but the Inn has a <a class="external-link" href="https://jamaicainn.com/resort/turtles/" target="_blank">special calendar</a> with projected hatchling dates.</p>
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<div>We had dinner under the stars at the Inn’s outdoor restaurant. I like that people dress up a little for dinner—as the website says, “evenings here are dapper.” This is not, by any means, getting dressed up formal—just put on your pretty, colorful dress and throw on your heels if you want to, which I did. It’s candlelit, and there’s a little band playing traditional Jamaican music, so we got up and danced a few times. When they played “All Night Long” by Lionel Ritchie, we couldn’t resist. They change the menu every night, and I had the curry lobster.</div>
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<p>The next morning, we had a traditional Jamaican breakfast at the Inn. No pancakes—bring out the cornmeal porridge, please, which I had for breakfast all the time growing up. The people in the kitchen are so happy when people request Jamaican fare. And you must have it with Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee. Oh my god, it’s the best in the world. I specifically request it. We traditionally sweeten it with sweetened condensed milk—that’s the way Jamaicans drink coffee. In the U.S., I have almond milk or whatever, but when I’m there, that’s my thing: freshly brewed Blue Mountain coffee with one teaspoon of sweetened condensed milk. That’s home to me</p>
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<div>After breakfast, I went to the onsite <a class="external-link" href="https://jamaicainn.com/spa/" target="_blank">Ocean Spa</a>. It’s small, with just a few treatment rooms, but it has everything I need, and they use local island plants in the treatments. It’s on a little stone pathway, away from the Inn. Your treatments are partly indoor, partly outdoor on an elevated rock. It feels like you’re laying out in the sea, and you can feel the breeze blowing and hear the waves below you. I had a Harmony Massage which does your whole body, including my abdomen, which I liked. There’s also a cliffside seawater salt bath you can take, which is next to a small waterfall and overlooking the sea, and ocean-view yoga.</div>
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<p>Ocean Spa</p>
<span class="BaseWrap-sc-TURhJ BaseText-fFzBQt CaptionText-cOFJqa eTiIvU fZKMXL hTa-dbB caption__text"> </span><span class="BaseWrap-sc-TURhJ BaseText-fFzBQt CaptionCredit-cTdqxu eTiIvU nZFKf iHbDSe caption__credit">Photo: Courtesy of Jamaica Inn</span>
<p>I recommend an afternoon at <a class="external-link" href="https://www.dunnsriverfalls.net/" target="_blank">Dunn’s River Falls</a>. I’ve been going there since my childhood—I used to road trip with my family and friends for the day. They have these beautiful gardens nearby as well. You have to rent special shoes to climb the Falls, so you don’t slip, and I highly recommend getting a guide. You will think you can do it until you step on a rock and see how slippery it is, and the falls are pretty high. You hold hands and form a chain to explore it.</p>
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<div>On Sunday, we had brunch at <a class="external-link" href="https://www.visitjamaica.com/listing/harmony-hall-gallery/2314/" target="_blank">Harmony Hall</a>, a beautiful old building with Jamaican-Georgian architecture with pink walls, mint green shutters, a big, open veranda and etched gingerbread trimming. It was declared a national monument by the Jamaican National Heritage Trust. There’s an incredible restaurant there called <a class="external-link" href="https://www.summerhouseja.com/" target="_blank">Summerhouse</a>, which is run by two local sisters, Suzanne and Michelle Rousseau. The restaurant is on the ground floor, you walk in and there’s a nice intimate bar, and the majority of the seating is on the verandah. The chef is trained in fine cuisine so he mixes and matches Jamaican and French. My friends had the smoked Marlin platter, and the roasted breadfruit with herb butter, sea salt, honey, crispy garlic and charred scallion. I had the crab cakes, which were amazing, with a slaw made of Christophine, which is a kind of squash, and plantain salsa. We also had Ackee and saltfish (Ackee is the national fruit of Jamaica) fried ripe plantains, callaloo, a native green that I eat every day when possible, and fried flour dumplings. There’s also a little area for shopping, which has a selection of fine arts and crafts from Jamaican artists, high fashion by some of the Caribbean’s best designers, and decorative pieces for the home. I ended up buying the Rousseau sisters’ vegan cookbook, <a class="external-link" href="https://www.amazon.com/Provisions-Caribbean-Cooking-150-Vegetarian-Recipes/dp/0738234672?ots=1&tag=vogue0d-20&linkCode=w50" target="_blank"><em>Provisions: The Roots of Caribbean Cooking</em></a>, silver earrings, a breezy cover-up with puffy sleeves, and beautiful placemats. Really creative, well-made stuff. There’s a huge lawn with benches where you can sit after you’ve eaten or shopped. It’s not noisy, just a perfect relaxed Sunday vibe. People go there on weekends and they just stay all day.</div>
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<p>Before we went to the airport, we went to <a class="external-link" href="https://www.visitjamaica.com/listing/scotchies-jerk-centre-montego-bay/2328/" target="_blank">Scotchie’s Jerk Centre</a> (14 DaCosta Drive, Ocho Rios), which is mandatory. They have two locations on the island, and everyone goes there because it’s good quality jerk. It’s not stylized, it’s just really good food served on a paper plate and wrapped in foil. During non-COVID times, there’s loud Jamaican music playing and families and everyone’s laughing and chatting, and it’s a joyful party atmosphere. But because of COVID, we just took our food to go. The two things to get are jerk chicken and jerk pork, and you should get extra jerk sauce and roasted yam or hard dough bread.”</p>
<h2>Ingleton’s Jamaica Packing List</h2>
<div class="BaseWrap-sc-TURhJ ProductEmbedWrapper-wjAnS grqhDi cSjWVo product-embed product-embed--image-top product-embed--no-bottom-padding"><a class="external-link BaseWrap-sc-TURhJ BaseText-fFzBQt BaseLink-gZQqBA ProductEmbedImageLink-jEbORO eTiIvU iEkjQc cWlYYF pgCZR" href="https://cna.st/p/2hc5hQAHwfiYs3zdxtB3C5r4GpKEWi8TMJSu84VoZSTwS9RHXPSqJBfdf56qAqcistp84ge8unZ4BpwggrXc29KNuNdZ1RYeheL7wWgvjNo?cid=610c519be7d084b43e5bcc80&xid=fr1645557829850djd" target="_blank"><span class="BaseWrap-sc-TURhJ SpanWrapper-kGGzGm eTiIvU fCMktF responsive-asset ProductEmbedImage-bfKIWK"><img class="ResponsiveImageContainer-dlOMGF byslZC responsive-image__image" src="https://assets.vogue.com/photos/610c58dcad8fc9e84b8eaf07/master/w_1280%2Cc_limit/slide_11.jpg" alt="Image may contain: Clothing, Apparel, Sun Hat, Hat, Cap, and Baseball Cap" /></span></a>
<p class="BaseWrap-sc-TURhJ BaseText-fFzBQt ProductEmbedImageCreditWrapper-caysVU eTiIvU hDSWCr dIGtEL">COURTESY OF BRAND</p>
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<h2 class="BaseWrap-sc-TURhJ BaseText-fFzBQt ProductEmbedHed-jCwFMc eTiIvU doIApY fAtmPq product-embed__hed">San Diego Hat Company Large Brim Ribbon Hat With Bow</h2>
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<p>“I love this hat because it’s easily packable, and it also has a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of 50.”</p>
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Grenada celebrates Christmas with Festival of Lights
https://caribshout.com/blog/grenada-celebrates-christmas-with-festival-of-lights
2019-12-19T23:56:14.000Z
2019-12-19T23:56:14.000Z
CaribShout
https://caribshout.com/members/CaribShout
<div><p style="text-align:center;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}3778123209,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}3778123209,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="710" alt="3778123209?profile=RESIZE_710x" />The Carenage in Grenada was decorated with colourful lights for the Festival of Lights. Photo courtesy the Grenada Tourism Authority</a></p>
<p>To crown the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Year of Festivals in 2019, Pure Grenada, the Spice of the Caribbean, debuted its newest event, Festival of Lights on December 6 and 7. </p>
<p>The Festival took place on the Carenage, which is one of the most stunning spots in the destination.</p>
<p>The beauty of the festoon lights on the Carenage was further enhanced by new spotlights, which lined the entire harbour area, lighting the historical buildings in a multi-coloured glow as well as a new laser light show.</p>
<p>Added to the ambience created by the lights was a mixture of carols, steel plan music, parang music, local cuisine, a Santa’s grotto and a night market that provided all the Grenadian Christmas goodies such as sorrel, ginger and household items.</p>
<p>Performances by local artists and groups such as the PBC Boys Choir, Sonika McKie, Kareem Alexis, Emily Rapier and Hess and the Boys crowned the entire affair.</p>
<p>The Festival of Lights was the brainchild of the Chairman of the Grenada Tourism Authority and adviser to the Minister of Tourism, Brenda Hood who championed the idea for a few years.</p>
<p>She said, “jThe Festival of Lights is an opportunity for us to show the world how wonderful and authentic Christmas time is in Grenada. It is also an opportunity for our visitors to interact with our friendly citizens.”</p>
<p>The Ministry for Tourism and Civil Aviation collaborated with the Grenada Tourism Authority to form a Committee to bring the Festival of Lights to fruition.</p>
<p>Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Dr. Clarice Modeste-Curwen said it was a great achievement for Grenada to host its first Festival of Lights.</p>
<p>She said, “This was true collaborative effort and we thank all the businesses that came on board. The Carenage is a stunning location and we hope to enhance it every year with the Festival of Lights.”</p>
<p>There will be two more events on Saturday, December 14 starting at 5 pm and December 21 at 3 pm to close out the Festival of Lights for 2019.</p></div>